Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad and Gobind Singh Deo (right).
PETALING JAYA: Racist and derogatory slurs are against the values of unity and humanity upheld by Malaysians, say Cabinet ministers.
In a statement Sunday (Feb 16), Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad referred to a recent incident involving a racist notice displayed at a roasted corn stall in Kota Warisan, Sepang.
“Malaysia is known for its rich diversity in culture, religion, and ethnicity, values respect, and non-discrimination for every individual.
“The act of using derogatory terms to label any ethnic group is not only inappropriate but also harmful.
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“Such actions reflect poorly on the community and tarnish the individual's integrity,” he said.
He added that the incident does not represent the sentiments of the broader community.
“It is often the actions of a few individuals that lead to racial and extremist behaviour.
“It is crucial not to let the actions of these few tarnish the long-standing good relations among different ethnic groups in Malaysia,” he said.
Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo also condemned the racist notice at the stall, saying that such incidents must be dealt with swiftly.
"Such actions are not only hurtful but also undermine racial harmony.
"At the same time, I call on community and religious leaders, as well as all Malaysians, to actively promote inclusivity and mutual respect," he said in a statement on Sunday
Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na'im Mokhtar in a statement on Sunday also advised the public to respect the ethnic and religious diversity sensitivities of the community and to avoid actions that could provoke anger among any ethnic groups.
