THE Association of Churches in Sarawak (ACS) has withdrawn from a Christmas public concert to be organised by TV Sarawak and the state’s UNIFOR (Unit for Other Religions in Premier Department) slated for December 3 in the Kuching city centre.
ACS chairman Datuk Danald Jute today issued a statement expressing the body’s unhappiness at the organisers wanting to play the theme song of “Jingle Bells Rock” which ACS feels has nothing to do with the birthday of Jesus Christ.
“We wanted ‘Jingle Bells Rock’ replaced with ‘O Holy Night’ which is more appropriate for a public event for Christmas which is to celebrate the birthday of Jesus Christ.
“‘Jingle Bells Rock’ has nothing to do with Jesus Christ”, he said.
“The organisers however insisted on ‘Jingle Bells Rock’ and said it cannot play the song ‘O Holy Night’.
“The organisers said the decision was following instructions by the Film Censorship Board and the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission.
“With this ACS will not take part in the event,” he said.
Jute urged organisers of such events to consult the ACS first to avoid controversies.
Responding to the controversy, Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil clarified that the event by TV Sarawak was done without the involvement of the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC).
He said TV Sarawak’s licence condition is specifically for live and delayed telecasts. Prerecorded shows do not require MCMC approval, he added
“As such, MCMC is not involved in this decision-making process,” he said, explaining that he had checked on the matter with the agency.
He also pointed out that the Film Censorship Board is under the Home Ministry and not his ministry. – The Vibes, November 24, 2023.
