A man prays at a flower tribute area at Botanical Gardens in Christchurch, New Zealand, March 16, 2019. – Reuters file photo
KUCHING: The Association of Churches in Sarawak (ACS) denounces in the strongest possible terms the senseless attack which saw 50 worshipers lost their lives and dozens wounded, including several Malaysians in the tragic shootings by extremists at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand.
“As we enter the season of Lent, the Association of Churches in Sarawak (ACS) notes with deep anguish and sadness, the recent terror attack where 50 worshippers lost their lives and dozens wounded including several Malaysians in the tragic shootings by extremists at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand.
“The victims are innocent and defenceless people who were exercising their religious right and duty during Friday prayers at the time of the shooting and ACS denounces the senseless attack in the strongest possible terms,” ACS said.
According to ACS, the right of every human being to equal rights, religious freedom and life is inalienable and regarded as the most fundamental of all human rights under the Universal Declaration of Human Rights 1948 which must be upheld and observed by all nations of the world.
“ACS extends their deepest condolences and sympathies to the families of the deceased victims and pray for the healing and swift recovery of the wounded.”
Lent is a season of reflection and prayer for Christians and ACS appealed for long lasting peace, unity and harmony amongst the people of Malaysia and all countries.
“Messages of hate, animosity and acts of terror must cease and the inalienable rights of all peoples and communities to religious freedom and life must be respected and upheld in the spirit of humanity and brotherhood. ”
ACS also called on all to use the social media responsibly towards building harmony and peace among all peoples in Sarawak and our nation Malaysia.