The government warns against misuse of religion to spread hatred, with police actively investigating cases to safeguard national unity.
KUALA LUMPUR: The government will not compromise with any individual or group that misuses religion to spread hatred, create division or threaten public order.
Minister of National Unity Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang stressed that any form of religious extremism is taken seriously as it undermines social harmony and national security.
“Although freedom of speech is guaranteed, it is not absolute and must not be abused to touch on racial, religious or royal institution (3R) issues,” he said when winding up a debate in the Dewan Rakyat.
He was responding to concerns over action against individuals alleged to have caused racial and religious tension through disruptive movements or gatherings.
Aaron said the matter is currently under police investigation with the cooperation of the Attorney General’s Chambers.
Those involved will be identified and prosecuted under existing laws, including the Sedition Act, the Penal Code and the Communications and Multimedia Act.
He added that the government will ensure social media remains a safe, ethical and responsible platform.
No tolerance will be given to any form of extremism, whether in the physical or digital space.
On broader unity efforts, Aaron said his ministry has developed 19 community integration platforms and sites covering social, educational, sports and economic spaces.
The ministry is also working to bring the heritage of national leaders closer to the public through the development of memorials for key figures.
This includes the collection of documents, personal items, photographs, and audio-visual materials to preserve the nation’s leadership legacy.
Aaron added that the National Historians Council has been established and is chaired by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
The council, comprising 17 experts, is tasked with overseeing the writing of national history to ensure it is accurate, credible and evidence-based.
