KUALA LUMPUR:An independent preacher known for his philanthropic nature, Ebit Lew, had to postpone his intention to continue the aid mission in Sabah as he was not allowed to do so.

He claimed that he had been informed that he was not allowed to tour the islands in Semporna to present donations.

He also claimed that he could be fined RM100,000 or jailed for three years if he continued with his intention.

Without sharing from whom the instructions were obtained, Ebit informed the matter in a post on his Facebook account on Tuesday.

"I am just saddened. I apologise to the people on the islands in Semporna whom I have converted to Islam. I can no longer continue the aid mission. I have to postpone my intention to build a school.

“This morning I was informed that I was not allowed to go to the islands in Semporna. (I was) asked to stop giving aid around here.

“I was told that among the punishments that could be imposed is a fine of 100,000 or imprisonment for 3 years.

"I am sorry. I had to postpone the construction of a small school or local community centre that I planned,” said Ebit who is also a successful entrepreneur.

In the post, he also apologised to the seven teachers he had gathered to help educate the community he had converted to Islam recently.

In fact, according to Ebit, wood has also been purchased to build a school for children in need.

“I bought some wood. I have gathered 7 teachers. Their spirit wants to educate. And be their source of income. I apologise, ustaz, ustazah.

"Earlier, many cried, including the members who should have taken us to the islands. I am touched by the kindness and love of the people of Sabah.

“(They are) like my own family. Love everyone like how they love me. I love you all. I forgive everyone. I am not discouraged (and this) struggle will continue,” he said.

Ebit said he is currently waiting for a flight to Tawau to continue his aid mission.

“I want to present a little donation in Tawau that I promised. Thank you all. Until we meet again if destined by Allah. I leave everything to Allah. It is enough that to Allah the believer surrenders,” he added.

Last Sunday, Ebit managed to bring a village of 157 people from the Bajau Laut tribe in Sabah to embrace Islam.

The mission was carried out when he visited Pulau Tatagan Semporna on his humanitarian aid mission to the Land Below The Wind.