KOTA BELUD: Sabah is not a place for racial and religious intolerance, and this should serve as an example, said Gabungan Rakyat Sabah information chief Datuk Joniston Bangkuai.
He said racial and religious extremism propagated by political bigots, which is apparent in the peninsula, must be rejected at all costs.
"Inclusivity is crucial, especially in tourism, where respecting diverse beliefs enhances the experience for everyone, said Joniston, who is also state assistant tourism, culture and environment minister.
He was speaking at the launch of the newly established Nabalu Tourism Association at the Capernaum Garden in Kampung Pomodoton here.
The high level of religious tolerance and open mindedness in Sabah were demonstrated by scores of people visiting Capernaum to appreciate nature than harping on religious differences, he noted.
Nabalu Tourism Association president and owner of Capernaum Garden, Michael Liman, said 75 per cent of his visitors are Muslims.
He said Muslim visitors are also curious to know the meaning of Capernaum and they had no issue coming to this place after the explanation.
Capernaum is named after a place mentioned in the Bible. For Christians, it is very meaningful because during the time of Jesus Christ, villagers living there were of completely mixed communities, he said.
Muslim visitors are drawn by Capernaum's natural surrounding and peaceful atmosphere, he added.
One of its unique features was the man-made swimming pools, where the banks of the stream were partitioned with cement to allow visitors to take a dip and enjoy swimming.
Capernaum is yet another product from Kadamaian, Sabah's top rural tourism spot with nearly a hundred community-based operators.
Present was Kota Belud member of parlaiment Innaraisah Munira Majlis.
