Kit Siang moots unity award named after Adib

PETALING JAYA: DAP adviser Lim Kit Siang has proposed the setting-up of an annual award named after fallen fireman Muhammad Adib Mohd Kassim.

Dubbed the “Adib Award”, Lim said it would be a way to honour Malaysians who were dedicated towards building a new and united Malaysia.

“Adib is not just a Malay hero, but a hero for all Malaysians.

“He must be honoured as an inspiration to build a new and united Malaysia which can be a world showcase of a successful plural nation,” said the Gelang Patah MP in a statement on Tuesday (Dec 25).

He suggested that the Adib Award be launched during next year’s National Day, which falls on August 31, as a way to commemorate his services and  sacrifices.

“There are those who want to use Adib’s death to incite racial and religious tension and unrest in the country.

“I don't think this is what Adib would want to see, as he would want to dedicate his life to the building of a united, harmonious, successful and prosperous multiracial, multi-lingual, multi-religious and multi-cultural Malaysian nation,” said Lim.

Muhammad Adib, 24, suffered serious injuries after being assaulted while taking part in a fire-fighting operation during a temple riot on Nov 27. He died at the National Heart Institute on Dec 17.

So far, 24 people have been charged in connection with the riot at Sri Maha Mariamman Temple in Subang Jaya.