Kuala lumpur: Entrepreneur and Cooperative Development Minister Steven Sim and Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri R. Ramanan are set to bring the pressing issue of religious and racial provocation to the forefront at tomorrow's Cabinet meeting.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Sim emphasized the urgent need to halt all forms of religious and racial violence and provocation, advocating for decisive police action against those responsible for such acts. He called for stringent legal repercussions for offenses like desecration of the Quran, Hindu symbols, temple demolition provocations, vandalism, and vehicle arson.
Sim urged all citizens to take responsibility in reducing racial tensions and to cease the dissemination of hatred that threatens national unity. He appealed for solidarity among Malaysians, encouraging them to reject the divisive agendas of provocateurs and extremists. "Our enemies are not each other, regardless of race or religion. In a world full of turmoil, Malaysians must unite to strengthen businesses and develop the economy for the well-being of all, irrespective of race or religion," he stated.
In parallel, Ramanan expressed concerns over the recent escalation of racist and extremist content on social media, which he believes has heightened community tensions. He urged the public to allow the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) to conduct thorough investigations and discouraged individuals from taking unilateral actions. Ramanan's statements followed the signing of a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Ex-Servicemen's Affairs Corporation (Perhebat), the Veterans Affairs Department (JHEV), and the Social Security Organisation.
In addition, Housing and Local Government Minister Datuk Nga Kor Ming underscored the importance of addressing provocative actions related to religious sensitivities at the Cabinet meeting to maintain harmony and unity among Malaysia's diverse populace. Nga advocated for legal action against anyone found insulting religious symbols or engaging in actions that incite conflict among different faiths. He emphasized the necessity of strict legal measures against all extremists, regardless of their background or position.
Earlier, National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang also condemned any form of violence, religious provocation, hatred, or extreme actions that touch on racial and religious sensitivities, deeming them unacceptable in Malaysia's multi-racial and multi-religious context. He stated that the National Unity Ministry (KPN) is taking recent incidents seriously, recognizing their potential to disrupt community harmony, and is pushing for uncompromising action against extremists threatening the country's peace.