Sabah police must answer one simple question. If now is not the right time for Israel Houghton to perform in Malaysia, when exactly is?
Announcing that police would recommend postponement before organisers even submit a formal application raises serious doubts about whether the concert will receive a fair assessment.
The police’s basic duty is to maintain security. If anyone threatens disruption, deal with those responsible. Do not allow intimidation to frighten audiences or dictate the state government’s decisions.
Houghton’s music carries messages of love, faith and unity. The police have not publicly shown that his proposed performance would promote hatred or violence. If organisers meet all legal requirements and security risks can be managed, let him perform.
Malaysia welcomed President Donald Trump in October 2025 despite protests over US policy on Palestine. The police should explain why sensitivities surrounding Houghton’s concert cannot likewise be managed through proper security arrangements. Objections from some groups alone should not decide whether an event can proceed.
Public order must never become an excuse to let anyone use threats of disorder to decide who gets to sing and who gets to listen.