TAWAU: The Sabah state government’s move to restrict the entry of Bersih’s Executive Director, Asraf Sharafi, is seen as a necessary measure to safeguard public order and preserve community harmony.
Mohd. Zaki Harry Susanto, advisor to the Sabah Drug and Crime Prevention Organization (PPDJS), explained that the decision should not be viewed as limiting freedom of expression.
Instead, it reflects a proactive effort to avoid any developments that might threaten peace in the state.
He stressed that every state bears the responsibility of protecting its people’s interests—particularly Sabah, which has a distinct social fabric, cultural diversity, and a strong emphasis on maintaining good inter-ethnic relations.
“Sabah has long stood out for mutual respect, tolerance, and unity across racial and religious lines. Any political activity or ideology that risks stirring unrest must be carefully assessed before being permitted here.
“This decision isn’t about suppressing individual expression, but about ensuring that external methods or movements align with local values and societal norms,” he said.
He also noted that the restriction does not prevent Asraf from visiting his wife and child in Sabah.
It is a temporary measure intended to prevent potential disputes during the upcoming Sabah Anti-Corruption Rally 3.0 this weekend.
“Family visits can resume once the event is over. Thus, the government’s action should be understood as an administrative step grounded in public safety and order, not as an infringement on family rights,” he added.
The prohibition of Asraf’s entry is a preventive measure, respecting Sabah’s rights under MA63
TAWAU: The state government’s decision to bar the entry of the Executive Director of the Coalition for Clean and Fair Elections (Bersih), Asraf Sharafi, into Sabah is deemed a necessary precaution to ensure public order and the continued harmony of the community.
Mohd. Zaki Harry Susanto, advisor to the Sabah Drug and Crime Prevention Organization (PPDJS), stated that this action should not be perceived as an attempt to restrict freedom of speech, but rather as a proactive approach to prevent any situations that could disrupt the state’s peace.
He emphasized that each state has a responsibility to protect the interests of its citizens, especially Sabah, which is unique in terms of its societal background, culture, and the need to maintain inter-ethnic harmony.
“Sabah has long been known for its culture of respect, tolerance, and unity among various races and religions. Any political approach or culture that has the potential to incite tension should be carefully evaluated before being allowed to develop in this state.
“The state government’s decision does not imply a denial of an individual’s right to express themselves, but rather ensures that the patterns or approaches introduced do not conflict with the values and norms of the local community,” he said.
He also clarified that the decision was not intended to prevent Asraf from meeting his wife and child who are in Sabah, but is merely a temporary precaution to avoid any controversy during the Sabah Anti-Corruption Rally 3.0 taking place this weekend.
“Meetings with family can still occur after the event concludes. Therefore, the state government’s action should not be interpreted as denying familial rights, but rather as an administrative decision made based on considerations of safety and public order,” he added.
