Johor Bahru: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today expressed disapproval of the incident involving a non-Muslim youth being slapped by an elderly man while eating at a convenience store in a shopping mall in Johor Bahru during Ramadan. The Prime Minister’s senior press secretary Tunku Nashrul Abaidah conveyed his thoughts, emphasizing the importance of mutual respect to avoid conflicts related to religious, racial, and ethnic sensitivities. He stressed that such actions are against the spirit of national unity and harmony.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the incident occurred last Sunday when a 21-year-old youth reported to the Johor Bahru North police that he was slapped twice on the right cheek by an unknown man. The altercation began after the man questioned the youth about his religion and requested to see his MyKad. The incident gained widespread attention after going viral on social media through two videos lasting 32 and 44 seconds.

Tunku Nashrul highlighted ongoing efforts by several parties to spread slander against the Prime Minister, describing these actions as desperate attempts to influence public opinion and undermine the country’s development. He underscored that spreading false information, particularly during Ramadan, is considered morally unacceptable and prohibited by Islam. He assured that these attempts would be closely monitored to protect the nation’s unity and wellbeing.