KUCHING: The recent attack on the Ulu Tiram Police Station in Johor Bahru, which resulted in the deaths of two policemen on Friday, has raised concerns due to its religious implications.
The Deputy Minister of Utilities and Telecommunications, Datuk Dr. Abdul Rahman Junaidi, hoped that such incidents do not occur in Sarawak.
Dr. Abdul Rahman said that Sarawak is renowned for its unity and mutual respect among different races and religions, which are the main pillars of the state’s prosperous community.
“Therefore, our hope is that incidents like this only involve specific groups and do not implicate Islam.
“I hope this incident does not spread to other places, especially in Sarawak.
“May we be able to maintain the safety in our area, ensuring that harmony and mutual respect remain the foundation of our lives today and in the future,” he told reporters after officiating the closing ceremony of the District Level Tilawah Al-Quran 1445H/2024M at Masjid Darul Hana on Friday night.
Yesterday, Inspector General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain confirmed that the attack, which occurred at 2.30 am, was carried out by a 21-year-old man believed to be a member of Jemaah Islamiyah (JI). The attack resulted in the deaths of two police officers. The suspect, who was shot dead at the scene, had planned the attack to obtain firearms stored at the police station.
Meanwhile, Dr. Abdul Rahman also noted that all agencies under the Sarawak Islamic Council (MIS), particularly the Sarawak Islamic Religious Department (JAIS), are responsible for organising Islamic religious activities in the state.
“This is to ensure the harmony of races and religions in Sarawak is maintained, while also considering other factors including safety.
“For example, if members of the Mosque and Surau Management Committee wish to invite speakers from within or outside the state, they must obtain official accreditation from the Director of JAIS.
“If certain parties take advantage of spreading things contrary to Islam, this is one of the efforts carried out by MIS through JAIS,” he added.
