NGOs say use of term ‘Darul Hana’ an attempt to change Sarawak’s identity as secular state
“Any attempts by irresponsible elements to change the history of Sarawak which is a secular state should be stopped immediately”
(MMO) – Five local non-governmental organisations (NGOs) voiced their objection yesterday to certain quarters using ‘Darul Hana’ when describing Sarawak, claiming it was an attempt to change Sarawak’s identity from a secular state to one based on religion.
In a joint statement, the NGOs said Parti Islam Se-Malaysia (PAS) and other groups should immediately cease using the term ‘Sarawak Darul Hana’ as it could disrupt racial and religious harmony in the state.
“We are aware that there are parties out there trying to disturb our religious harmony by trying to change ‘Sarawak Bumi Kenyalang’ to ‘Sarawak Darul Hana’, which was never agreed upon by all the races in the state.
“In terms of history, the use of ‘Darul Hana’ in Sarawak is not suitable as it has never been used since the setting-up of the modern government of Sarawak in 1841.
“Any attempts by irresponsible elements to change the history of Sarawak which is a secular state should be stopped immediately,” said the NGOs.
