The Court of Appeal's ruling on the "Allah" case this morning has been described as a "sad day for natives in Sabah and Sarawak" by former cabinet minister Bernard Dompok.

According to Star Online, Dompok, who is the United Pasok Momogun Kadazandusun Murut organisation (Upko) president, said he was disappointed with the decision.

"Personally, I am disappointed with the Court of Appeal's decision," Dompok was quoted as saying.

He also reportedly pointed that the use of the word "Allah" in the two Borneo states predated the formation of Malaysia.

"The word Allah is being used by Christian communities in Indonesia and in the Arab world. Why should Malaysia be any different?" he was reported as saying.

"I am sure anyone with the right mind would defend any community's right to use this word," he said.

The former Plantation, Industries and Commodities Minister stated his belief that the The Herald would appeal against the decision and said he "hopes for the best" regarding the appeal.

Many other Sabah and Sarawak politicians from both sides of the political divide have voiced an united front in criticising the court's decision.

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