David J. Banks

A Veneer of Unity? Islam and a Culture of Inclusion in Sabah

This chapter discusses the everyday practice of Islam in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, and asks whether the openness of practice implies an eventual broader social unity than currently exists between ethnic groups. Will Islam and its practice be a powerful force for a greater unity? The chapter also discusses the political background of the current state of Islam in society and suggests that while the minimalism of practice is not a negative force, it is not currently thought to be sufficient to bring about truly revolutionary cultural and social reforms.