PN urges govt to act against those threatening harmony

2026-03-13 - 04:24

Dr Halimah Ali, head of PN’s national unity portfolio, said matters involving religious sensitivities and inter-ethnic relations must be handled prudently, legally, and through proper administrative channels. (Bernama pic) PETALING JAYA: Perikatan Nasional has urged the government to act decisively against those threatening the country’s harmony, warning that inaction could escalate tensions along racial and religious lines. Dr Halimah Ali, head of PN’s national unity portfolio, said the coalition is concerned over rising tensions involving houses of worship allegedly built on private or government land. The Kapar MP condemned recent vehicle burnings and physical attacks as “deeply regrettable and completely unacceptable,” adding that such actions threaten social harmony and could further inflame tensions. The PAS lawmaker stressed that matters involving religious sensitivities and inter-ethnic relations must be handled prudently, legally, and through proper administrative channels – not through emotional reactions or violence. “Perikatan Nasional urges the government to act swiftly, transparently, and firmly in addressing this controversy before it escalates into more serious tensions,” she said in a statement. “Delays in providing clear explanations and solutions will only create space for inaccurate information, distorted propaganda, and wild speculation on social media, which could inflame racial and religious sentiments. “We urge all parties, including community leaders, religious figures, civil society organisations, and the public, to exercise restraint, avoid provocation, and refrain from spreading unverified information.” Halimah highlighted that Malaysia’s ethnic, religious, and cultural diversity is a cornerstone of the nation and emphasised that safeguarding national unity, peace, and stability should remain a priority for all Malaysians. Earlier, national unity minister Aaron Ago Dagang urged the police to take decisive action against those involved in three recent incidents seen as a threat to the country’s racial and religious harmony. These incidents include an attack on activist Cikgu Chandra by burning three of his vehicles, the desecrating of a sacred Hindu symbol, and an attack on controversial preacher Zamri Vinoth.