The Usukan assemblyman cited Sabah as an example of how religious tolerance was well maintained among the communities of various ethnicities and religions.

“For the people of Sabah, our differences in religion and race are not an obstacle to unity.

“In fact, don’t be surprised if you find a Muslim attending a wedding held in a church,” he said in a statement.

This comes as PAS MP Ahmad Yunus Hairi yesterday called for the local government development ministry not to allow the building of non-Muslim houses of worship, such as temples and churches, in the same vicinity as mosques.

Speaking at the Dewan Rakyat during the debate on the Supply Bill 2023, the Kuala Langat MP said houses of worship should be in different places for different religions because of “sensitivities”.

Salleh, meanwhile, urged all parties to defend the practice of moderation and unity in Sabah, which is home to more than 33 indigenous groups of various religions.

“Let us defend this and not be easily influenced by extreme elements,” he said.