A cocktail was thrown at the KK Mart outlet in Satok, Kuching, on March 31, which came as a shock to many Sarawakians, particularly in the city.
Kuching has long been known for its history of religious tolerance and racial harmony, proudly earning the title of ‘City of Unity’ on August 1st, 2015.
This recognition, the first of its kind in Malaysia, was awarded by the One Malaysia Foundation to Kuching due to its successful coexistence of over 20 ethnic groups with three main religions.
Fortunately, the attack resulted in only a minor fire. However, considering the presence of gas cylinders stacked for sale near the outlet’s entrance, the incident could have led to a catastrophic explosion.
The potential damage caused by the act would be unimaginable if the gas cylinders had caught fire.
I must commend the police for their prompt action in going after the culprit. Kuching District police chief ACP Ahsmon Bajah stated that they are actively searching for the suspect, and
the case is being investigated under Section 435 of the Penal Code.
If the perpetrator is caught and convicted, they could face a maximum jail term of seven years along with a fine. Ahsmon also reminded the public to refrain from taking the law into their own hands and to allow the legal processes to proceed.
I would also like to express my appreciation to our state leaders, who span both sides of the political spectrum, for unequivocally condemning the act.
Among them are Minister for Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah, Satok assemblyman Datuk Ibrahim Baki, SUPP Youth chief Datuk Michael Tiang, Julau MP Datuk Larry Sng, PBB Deputy Youth chief Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni, PBK president Voon Lee Shan, Bandar Kuching MP Dr Kelvin Yii, and chief Political Secretary to the Premier, who is also Tupong assemblyman Fazzrudin Abdul Rahman.
Ibrahim advised the public to remain calm and refrain from speculating on the matter, allowing the police to conduct their investigation.
I must clarify that I do not condone the act in any way. However, it is undeniable that the incident has served as a litmus test for the level of unity and racial tolerance within Sarawak’s diverse population.
Once again, we can be grateful that it reaffirms the strong sense of unity in diversity among the majority of Sarawakians, demonstrating that coexistence thrives within the state.
It is heartening to witness state leaders, regardless of their political affiliations, coming together with one voice to condemn the act.
Unity in Sarawak remains resilient; however, we cannot afford to be complacent. This incident, categorised by many as an act of terrorism, if not swiftly addressed, could ignite unnecessary racial and religious tensions.
It is the responsibility of every Sarawakian to ensure the preservation of the harmonious relationships enjoyed among the state’s multi-racial populace.
After all, we are Malaysia’s model state in terms of inter-racial and inter-religious unity, and we must strive to uphold this distinction to the best of our abilities.
The views expressed here are those of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of the New Sarawak Tribune.
