Upholding unity: Malaysians have to be committed to the principle of mutual respect to preserve national harmony, says Anwar. — Bernama
PETALING JAYA: Malaysians have to be committed to the principle of mutual respect and avoid violent acts that could threaten peace and harmony, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
“There is no point talking about Islam and its beauty, especially in the month of Ramadan, if it does not build internal strength and keep us away from violent acts,” said the Prime Minister.
His reminder came after a recent incident involving a man who allegedly slapped a non-Muslim youth for eating in public during Ramadan at a mall in Johor Baru.
“Any action like this or similar to it needs to be stopped because it goes against the spirit of national unity and harmony.
“Issues that touch on religious, racial and national sensitivities can be avoided if all parties are committed to the principles of mutual respect while building a civilised nation,” Anwar’s senior press secretary Tunku Nashrul Abaidah said during the Prime Minister’s Office briefing yesterday.
On Sunday, two videos of the alleged slapping incident went viral on social media.
The victim lodged a report on Monday and 65-year-old retiree Abdul Razak Ismail was charged in court yesterday.
Tunku Nashrul also answered questions on the Urban Renewal Bill, especially on claims that Malays and bumiputra would lose their rights if this law is implemented.
“Under the Bill, renovation can only be carried out after consent is obtained from the owner.
After an agreement has been reached, the owner will receive compensation, living allowance and other benefits before getting back the renovated property.
“The Prime Minister emphasised that the Bill will ensure renovated houses are returned to their owners.
“The property compensation value is based on future market price, which will help them to regain the renovated house.
“At present, the compensation is decided by the consultant or the court based on current value, making the owner unable to afford new homes, which are priced significantly higher.”
Tunku Nashrul gave an assurance that the Bill would guarantee a wide range of compensation and benefits for owners, including payments for temporary housing rentals, ex-gratia payments for the renovation of existing property, and allowances during the construction phase.
He said the Bill aims to protect and uphold the dignity of the people, especially Malays in urban areas, while providing a solution to the long-standing tussle between the people and developers.
The Prime Minister also hit out at critics who have been actively spreading slander with a series of outdated stories during the fasting month.
“This only shows the desperation of these parties who are trying to influence the public and a lack of real ideas to develop the country.
“The prolonged slander, which is strictly prohibited by Islam, especially in the month of Ramadan, shows their low morality,” said Tunku Nashrul.
