The Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP) criticized recent calls by peninsular Malaysian politicians to ban alcohol at official government events, warning the move could extend to state-endorsed celebrations and threaten Sabah’s cultural identity.
SAPP vice-president Datuk Chong Pit Fah argued the proposal, prompted by controversy over a Tourism Malaysia dinner, infringes on Sabah’s autonomy and contradicts the 20-Point Agreement, which guarantees religious and cultural freedom for the state.
Chong pointed out that alcohol is a traditional part of cultural events in Sabah, such as the Kaamatan Festival and various Chinese celebrations, which are vital to the state’s identity and tourism.
SAPP stressed that such bans could distort Sabah’s cultural practices and urged against external political influence on the state's traditions.
SAPP vice-president Datuk Chong Pit Fah argued the proposal, prompted by controversy over a Tourism Malaysia dinner, infringes on Sabah’s autonomy and contradicts the 20-Point Agreement, which guarantees religious and cultural freedom for the state.
Chong pointed out that alcohol is a traditional part of cultural events in Sabah, such as the Kaamatan Festival and various Chinese celebrations, which are vital to the state’s identity and tourism.
SAPP stressed that such bans could distort Sabah’s cultural practices and urged against external political influence on the state's traditions.
