‘Nation has laws and Federal Constitution, and problems must be resolved according to such channels, not by fanning flames of hatred’
GOMBAK: Racial and religious sentiments are often manipulated to stir hatred, especially through sensitive issues such as about places of worship, to gain short-term political support, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Without naming any specific party or individual, he linked the controversy surrounding illegal temples to old political tactics aimed at inflaming public emotions.
“Day in, day out, racial and religious issues are being provoked. Not to strengthen unity but to dismantle it.
“This country has laws and a Federal Constitution. If there is a problem, resolve it according to the law, not by fanning the flames of hatred.”
Anwar, who is also PKR president, was speaking at the closing of the Selangor PKR Convention yesterday.
He said issues involving places of worship must be addressed based on the rule of law, the Constitution and dialogue rather than sentiment or incitement.
“PKR has never claimed to be a champion of any race. We are champions of justice. That has been the foundation of our struggle from the very beginning.
“Narrow race and religion based politics will only divide the people and ultimately destroy the country.”
Anwar stressed that police have been instructed to take firm action against any party attempting to disrupt public order by fanning racial tensions.
About 141 NGOs were reported to be planning a rally in the capital to pressure the authorities to take action against “illegal” houses of worship.
The date of the demonstration coincides with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s official visit.
Anwar warned that history has shown many nations collapsed due to narrow racial and religious pulls.
He stressed that Malaysia would only remain safe and stable if all citizens were embraced as one united force regardless of race or religion.
“Malays, Chinese, Indians, Orang Asli – all as one team. Only then can justice be upheld.”
Anwar also defended the government’s firm stance in taking action against corruption and abuse of power, including cases involving high-profile political figures.
“I don’t care who it is, MPs, ministers or former ministers. What matters to me is the people’s mandate to save this country.”
He said the recent exposure of large-scale financial scandals was not a sign that the country was deteriorating but proof that serious efforts are underway to clean up the system.
Anwar also took a swipe at leaders who are vocal about championing racial causes but fail to explain their extraordinary personal wealth.
“They talk about saving the Malays but their bank accounts run into billions. That is why they are afraid of us.”
Present at the event were PKR deputy president Nurul Izzah Anwar, Selangor PKR chairman Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari, PKR vice-president Datuk Seri R. Ramanan and party secretary-general Datuk Fuziah Salleh.
