KUCHING, Sept 11: Bintulu MP Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing is urging politicians and their supporters to put aside their ambitions as Malaysia is still struggling to get by during the Covid-19 pandemic.
He said adopting stances that have religious connotations do nothing to put Malaysia back on track for economic and social recovery.
He was referring to a Bill which allegedly restricts the propagation of non-Muslim religions as announced by Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Ahmad Marzuk Shaary recently.
“Regardless of the status of this proposed Bill, my only position is that I firmly oppose it to the end.
“Our country is a multi-racial one. Everyone has a right to freedom of religion as enshrined in the Constitution. It must not be compromised now or in the future,” he said in a statement today.
Tiong also reminded all ministers, particularly the Minister in charge of Religious Affairs, to work closely with the Minister of National Unity in order to conduct their offices by focusing on the unity and integration of all Malaysians.
“Let’s maintain the spirit of unity, mutual understanding, acceptance, and harmony among all races and religions so we can promote a true ‘Keluarga Malaysia’ (Malaysian Family), instead of making it another classic case of ‘kong kali kong’ (empty vessels make the most sound).
“I hope that all politicians in Malaysia will be more sensitive when dealing with various issues and avoid making remarks that incite and hurt the feelings of other religious groups.
“Creating emotionally charged rhetoric will only make interracial relationships more tense. Do not use this as a way to garner votes. It is shameless and highly irresponsible for the country and its societies,” he advised. — DayakDaily
