KUALA LUMPUR: There is no need to introduce new laws to manage issues related to racial and religious hatred, says National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang.
In a Parliamentary written reply, he said that existing laws are sufficient for the authorities to enforce existing laws to handle any action that relates to racial or religious sensitivities.
"The ministry is of the opinion that there is no need to enact or introduce a new law at this time and it is sufficient to improve the enforcement of the existing laws.
"However, if the situation is urgent and the government sees that the existing laws need to be revised to curb some conversations (hate speech) or acts of provocation that can threaten harmony, then the ministry will fully support it," he said in a Parliamentary reply to a question from V. Ganabatirau (PH-Klang).
Ganabatirau asked the government whether it has any intention to come up with a new law specifically involving anti-racism, hate speech, and minority protection.
He also warned that any individual who intentionally commits any act, provokes or issues any statement that undermines racial and religious unity can be investigated and prosecuted under provisions of the existing laws.
This includes Subsection 4(1) of the Sedition Act; Section 295, 296, 298, 298A, 504, 505 and 506 of the Penal Code; and Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act.
