Police inaction on religious cases could threaten stability, says Gobind

2026-03-12 - 07:14

Digital minister Gobind Singh Deo reminded the police of their duty to maintain public order, describing it as a fundamental responsibility that cannot be compromised. PETALING JAYA: DAP chairman Gobind Singh Deo warns that police inaction in cases involving religious sensitivities could affect Malaysia’s stability. While the digital minister praised the authorities for swiftly charging those responsible for acts against the Quran, he stressed that similar prompt action should be taken over the act committed against the “soolam” (trident), a sacred Hindu symbol. Gobind said the police’s failure to act in such cases heightens racial tension, emphasising that upholding and enforcing the law without fear or favour is essential to maintaining Malaysia’s racial harmony and unity. “Recently, we have seen a lack of action against those spreading racial hatred, which has led to flare-ups that directly threaten the stability of our nation,” he said. “This matter was raised and discussed in the Cabinet yesterday. The government’s stance is clear, but enforcement agencies must follow through.” Gobind reminded the police of their duty to maintain public order, describing it as a fundamental responsibility that cannot be compromised. He called for Inspector-General of Police Khalid Ismail to take immediate steps to identify and bring to court those responsible for desecrating religious symbols. “Malaysia cannot afford to slide into lawlessness or racial unrest,” he said. “The police must act now to restore public confidence and ensure that the peace we have built is protected from those who seek to tear it down.” Activist Tamim Dahri Abdul Razak, who has been at the forefront of a campaign against allegedly illegal Hindu temples, claimed he was unaware that he had desecrated a “soolam”, stating that he mistook the trident for a “rusty piece of metal”. He explained that he was feeding wild monkeys near a cave in Langkawi when he saw a sharp steel rod and did not realise it was a religious symbol, as the area was not a place of worship.