Kuala lumpur: The Ministry of National Unity (KPN) takes seriously any form of religious extremism that could undermine social harmony and national security, its minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang said. He stressed that the government will not compromise with any individual or group that misuses religion to spread hatred, create division or threaten public order.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Aaron stated that 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 made these remarks while winding up the debate on the motion of thanks for the Royal Address for the ministry in the Dewan Rakyat today. This response came after RSN Rayer (PH-Jelutong) raised concerns over actions against individuals alleged to have caused racial and religious tension, including the organization of movements or gatherings that could disrupt public order.
Aaron explained that the matter is currently under investigation by the police (PDRM) with the cooperation of the Attorney General's Chambers. He emphasized that 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 is committed to ensuring that 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 efforts to strengthen unity, Aaron highlighted that KPN has taken various approaches, including developing 19 community integration platforms and sites. These platforms cover social, educational, sports, and economic spaces to encourage interaction among Malaysians of different backgrounds.
Furthermore, Aaron mentioned that the ministry, through the National Archives of Malaysia, is working to bring the heritage and memorials of national leaders closer to the public. This includes the development of 11 memorials for key figures such as Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, with the collection of documents, personal items, photographs, and audio-visual and published materials to preserve the nation's leadership legacy.
Aaron also noted that the National Historians Council has been established and is chaired by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, together with 17 experts. The council is tasked with overseeing and reviewing the writing of national history to ensure it is accurate, credible, and based on evidence.