Ethnic Tolerance in Sabah: An Analysis of the Factors Affecting the Harmony of the People in Sabah

Abstract

This paper explains the factors influencing the level of tolerance that exist among the various
ethnics and religions in Sabah. It also analyses, at the macro level, the social cohesion of the societies in
Sabah from the aspect of structural social relations as they relate to several micro-level studies made by
researchers in Sabah, particularly in relation to issues of ethnic tolerance in the state. It therefore, appeared
that the various ethnic and religious communities in Sabah are at a good ethnic tolerance level compared to
other states in Peninsular Malaysia; this must be understood within a different context. This understanding
must take into account the history of the various ethnic communities in Sabah as well as explain the cultural
openness that causes the relaxation of cultural identity that is present among the population. Hence, it must
be understood that the high ethnic tolerance level in Sabah is not something new, but have existed long
before the arrival of the colonialists where the situation has manifested itself through the various forms of
social relations, including the most intimate family relations (marriage).