KUCHING, March 22: Federal Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Dato Sri Tiong King Sing has expressed disappointment with the statement by political observer Prof Dr Wong Chin Huat that appeared to be supportive of the Malay Proclamation Assembly, which the former claims smacks of racism and seeks to undermine the unity of the pluralistic society of Malaysia.
Warning against any attempt to destroy the unity of Malaysia, Tiong said he personally agreed that such an assembly should not be continued as it would bring more harm than good to the multi-religious and multi-racial society in Malaysia.
“Wong’s statement also raises many questions as to whether he is still a political observer who loves unity or has he failed to understand the true meaning of racial unity and the importance of safeguarding this basic value despite having been an observer of Malaysian politics for decades?,” he questioned in a statement posted on his social media page today.
Tiong who is also Bintulu MP, emphasised that Malaysians need to continue to play a role in strengthening the relations between races and preserving the harmony in the country so as to ensure that the dark history and tragedy of May 13 will not happen again.
Moreover, he reminded that the Malaysia Madani concept inspired by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim also placed strong importance on racial unity as well as the rights and freedom for all religions to be upheld in this country.
“Therefore, any attempt to destroy the unity of the plural society in Malaysia must be avoided and opposed.
“I reiterate my stand that any assembly or procession that has a racial tone should be prevented in order to maintain public peace and order,” he said.
Otherwise, he pointed out that it will cost the country when foreign investors start to stay away from Malaysia as they will have fear of doing business in a troubled country.
Tiong also advised former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad to enjoy his golden age instead of trying to use the Malay Proclamation Assembly as a platform to seek attention at a time when people’s support for him is on the decline.
“Don’t destroy the harmony in Malaysia. We are faced with more important issues which are to stimulate economic growth that can benefit the people.
“It is time for Tun Dr Mahathir to give space to the new generation after him to govern and manage the country according to current trends, instead of trying to disrupt the new administration of the government using dirty political tactics and creating new problems,” he added. — DayakDaily
