Deputy minister refutes claims of inaction on religious controversies, citing committee work and coordination with other agencies.
KUALA LUMPUR: The National Unity Ministry has rejected allegations that it has failed to address racial and religious issues in the country.
Deputy Minister R. Yuneswaran (pic) said the ministry’s role is to maintain harmony and provide input through the multi-agency Harmony Committee.
He explained that the ministry operates under the Rukun Tetangga Act 2012 and lacks direct prosecutorial powers over individuals involved in incidents.
“Our focus is to manage issues through meetings and discussions, ensuring appropriate input is considered,” Yuneswaran said during a Senate session.
He was responding to concerns raised by Senator Datuk Mustafa Musa about weak enforcement allowing racial issues to be easily ridiculed.
Yuneswaran stated he disagrees with the claims, noting his direct involvement in various meetings to address these matters.
Apart from the Harmony Committee, the ministry works through the National Council for Local Government.
It also collaborates with the Home Ministry, Communications Ministry and other authorities to monitor inflammatory social media content.
“A Societal Stress Index study will be conducted soon to assess social issues and enable proactive measures,” he added.
Yuneswaran expressed hope that leaders and religious figures would help clarify issues to the public.
He emphasised that the country is governed by the rule of law and wrongdoing cannot be compromised.
“We must not protect those who threaten harmony and undermine unity,” the deputy minister said.
