KUALA LUMPUR: Several members of the Dewan Negara have called for stricter action against those who play up ethnic and religious issues.
Senator Datuk Salehuddin Saidin said Malaysia has comprehensive laws to deal with such behaviour but enforcement must be further streamlined for greater effectiveness.
At the same time, he proposed that the National Unity Ministry create more programmes to foster cultural understanding among teenagers.
“I suggest that the government reintroduce a school syllabus focused on unity, along with programmes and activities which bring people together,” he said during a debate in the Senate yesterday, Bernama reported.
Echoing similar concerns, Senator Rita Sarimah Anak Patrick Insol reminded political figures and citizens to be mindful of their words and actions to avoid offending any ethnic or religious communities.
She condemned the recent actions of three radio deejays who allegedly mocked a Hindu religious ritual and uploaded a video of it on social media.
“This is entirely unacceptable. Every citizen, including political figures, must be cautious and refrain from making statements which could offend any community,” she said.
Senator Dr Lingeshwaran R. Arunasalam urged the Home Ministry and the Royal Malaysia Police to launch an official investigation into the incident, to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
“Although an apology has been issued, this matter cannot simply be brushed aside,” he stressed.
The Dewan Negara sitting will resume tomorrow.
