Kuala lumpur: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has called on the peace-loving majority to speak up against narratives of hatred and slander being propagated by a minority group against society in the country. He said the current situation appeared to reflect a 'tyranny of the minority', where a small group of loud, angry individuals who spread slander were attempting to impose their will on the majority of the people.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar emphasized the nation's foundation of 'unity enhances strength' since its formation under the first Prime Minister Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj. He highlighted that although the Malay and Bumiputera communities form the majority and Islam is enshrined as the federal religion, Malaysia was built on mutual respect and appreciation for one another.

Anwar stated that within the Malaysia MADANI framework, the agenda set by the founding fathers continues, not creating a new path. He stressed the importance of grounding national development in values, ethics, and conscience rooted in religious teachings, rather than solely focusing on technology, digitalization, and innovation.

He pointed out the current challenges stem from a lack of understanding, leading to hasty judgments and the use of religious sentiments on social media and in politics to sow hatred. On social and economic justice issues, Anwar supports efforts to assist poor Bumiputeras but insists on helping all needy Malaysians, regardless of race.

The Prime Minister also reaffirmed the government's respect and support for future Wesak Day celebrations. The discourse, organized by the Transport Ministry and the Malaysian Buddhist Consultative Council (MBCC), saw around 1,000 participants engaging in interfaith dialogue, community service, and values-based economic development.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke revealed the government allocated RM2.5 million for the discourse, including nationwide outreach activities. He emphasized the program's role in strengthening national unity and supporting an inclusive Malaysia vision, marking the first time the government is directly involved at a national level with a major festive celebration.