KUALA LUMPUR: Umno does not see a need to create a ministerial position specifically for the non-Muslim community, says party vice-president Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail (pic).
"Umno respects the principles of the Federal Constitution, which guarantee the rights and well-being of all Malaysians, including non-Muslim communities, in practising their religion and culture freely.
"These principles have long been the foundation of the nation's harmony and prosperity," he said in a statement on Friday (Feb 14).
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He said the Cabinet, which consists of members from various ethnic backgrounds, ensures that the people's concerns are heard through their elected representatives.
He said such a position, as suggested by Raub MP Chow Yu Hui, should not be considered as it would only give rise to polemics that anger the Malay-Muslim community towards the government
He said Umno maintains that any statement or proposal for changes to existing policies must align with constitutional provisions and uphold the stability and harmony introduced by the nation's founders and nurtured over time.
ALSO READ: No need to split religious affairs portfolio, says BN Youth
During a debate on the motion of thanks on the Royal Address in the Dewan Rakyat on Wednesday (Feb 12), Chow proposed splitting the Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) portfolio, arguing that it would ensure fair religious governance, strengthen national unity, and prevent any group from being sidelined.
