PETALING JAYA: There is no point talking about Islam and its beauty, especially in the month of Ramadan, if it does not keep us away from violence that threatens peace and harmony.
This was a reminder by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, which was conveyed by senior press secretary Tunku Nashrul Abaidah.
“I begin today's (Wednesday, March 19) briefing with the message from the Prime Minister regarding the recent incident of a non-Muslim youth being slapped for eating in public.
“Any action like this, or similar to it, needs to be stopped simply because it goes against the spirit of national unity and harmony.
“The Prime Minister believes issues that touch on religious, racial and national sensitivities can be avoided if all parties are obedient and committed to practising the principle of mutual respect to build a civilised nation,” he said.
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Additionally, Tunku Nashrul clarified several questions raised regarding the Urban Redevelopment Bill (PSB), especially on claims that Malays and Bumiputeras will lose their rights when this law is implemented.
There are also questions about how the original owners will be able to re-own the costly renovation, he said.
One of the main principles of PSB is that the renovation project must be carried out after consulting with owners to participate in the project, Tunku Nashrul added.
“After reaching an agreement, the owners will get back the renovated properties, compensation, living benefits and several other perks during construction and post-completion stage.
“The Prime Minister said the implementation of the PSB Bill will ensure the renovated houses are returned to the owners so they can continue to stay in their homes.
“The property compensation value is based on future market price, which will help owners. This is different from the present situation whereby the compensation is decided by the consultant or the court on the current value, leading to the inability to afford a new house” he said.
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He added contrary to the negative perception of the PBS, it is drafted to protect the rights of owners by ensuring fair and higher compensation, elevate the dignity of the people and ensure the urban poor, especially Malays live with dignity rather than being left decades without any solution.
This PSB Bill is a solution to the struggle between the people and developers that has been going on for a long time, he said.
Despite being Ramadan, there have been slanderous efforts directed towards the Prime Minister by certain parties.
“Prolonged slander, which is strictly prohibited by Islam, especially in the month of Ramadan shows their low morality. However, we will continue to monitor closely so that it will never threaten or weaken our spirit and intention in ensuring the well-being of the country and the people,” he said.
Separately, he said Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil is expected to make an announcement based on a decision by the cabinet.
