PETALING JAYA: Malaysians united as one voice to tell the world the country is safe for international events following news the upcoming women’s world squash championship might be cancelled or postponed due to “security” concerns.
The message Malaysians are sending out is – foreigners can enjoy this country with peace of mind.
Youth and Sports Minister Khairy Jamaluddin said there was no security threat in Malaysia, especially one that would jeopardise an international event.
“I dispute the claim. We have just hosted many world leaders.
“If it’s safe enough for (US President) Barack Obama to come to Kuala Lumpur, I’m sure it’s safe enough for squash players,” said Khairy, adding that the claim was “ridiculous”.
He said his ministry was in the midst of contacting the promoters, Hallmark Events Group, regarding its claim.
“They should explain (the claim) as it involves the reputation of the country.
“If it has to be postponed due to other reasons, such as administration or finance (issues), give the real explanation instead of using security concerns as a reason,” he said, adding that the promoters should have reported any security concern to the Malaysian police.
Deputy Home Minister Datuk Nur Jazlan Mohamed brushed off the organiser’s claim that Malaysia was unsafe.
“There is no reason to cancel the event due to security. There is no security threat in Kuala Lumpur,” said Nur Jazlan.
Malaysia Crime Prevention Foundation vice-chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye said it was not right for “some people” to label Malaysia as unsafe because efforts were being made to ensure security.
He said the authorities like the police and the Armed Forces were able to provide good security for many world leaders who came to Malaysia recently, including Obama, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
