PETALING JAYA: Debates on religion must be stopped if they only seek to create differences without efforts to build unity, says Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang (pic).
The National Unity Minister said that discussions on religion should be conducted with utmost respect and an awareness of the country’s diverse society.
Referring to the planned debate between MIC deputy president Datuk Seri M. Saravanan and preacher Zamri Vinoth, the minister wants any potential debates on religion to be called off.
“I hope any debates, especially involving religion, do not proceed. Debates or discussions that are focused on religious differences have the potential to fuel tensions and worsen relations among Malaysia’s diverse community,” he said in a statement yesterday.
Religious discussions, he said, must be done respectfully and take into account Malaysia’s diversity, stressing on the importance of focusing on common ground and universal values that serve to unite Malaysians.
He said the ministry, through the Harmoni Madani initiative, carried out various dialogues with the theme of understanding, respecting and accepting.
Aaron Ago said all parties, regardless if they are elected representatives, politicians, religious and community leaders, must play a role in promoting unity and preserving national harmony.
His statement comes after independent preacher Zamri Vinoth accepted Saravanan’s challenge to a debate on Hinduism, following public outrage over three Era FM hosts who came under criticism for allegedly mimicking the sacred Hindu Kavadi dance while chanting “Vel Vel”.
The three radio presenters had been suspended until further notice, pending an internal investigation.
Astro Audio had also apologised over the incident.
Meanwhile, Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo has repeated his call for firm action against those who incite religious or racial hatred.
He said despite previous warnings from authorities, such incitement was being repeated, further compounding matters.
“This matter was raised in Cabinet on Friday and a decision was made that firm action must be taken in cases of this nature,” he said.
Gobind added there are existing legal provisions to deal with situations like these.
“These provisions mean nothing if they are not enforced.
“Action must be taken to send a strong message that we will not condone insults to any religion and that there are consequences for doing so,” he said.
