KUALA LUMPUR: All parties, including the general public and political leaders, are advised to refrain from raising racial and religious issues.
Deputy Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister Datuk Seri R. Ramanan said this followed the prevalence of racial and religious remarks made by irresponsible individuals, which had been rampant of late.
"Everything is being racially incited. Just look at the comments (on social media), not only from ordinary people but also from political leaders. Stop exploiting religious and racial issues. Is there really no other topic to discuss?
"This is just my personal opinion. Recently, some Opposition leaders have questioned whether the Prime Minister can serve for 10 years or two terms. Some have even argued that doing so would be religiously inappropriate.
"What kind of madness is this? Why must everything be tied to religion and race?
"I am very upset about this issue, so please, it needs to stop," he said after visiting the Dewi Sri Pathrakaliamman Temple in Jalan Masjid India, here Thursday (March 20).
When asked if the relocation of the temple had also been politicised, Ramanan said if it was, it must stop.
Ramanan, who is also Sungai Buloh MP, said the government had never used the term "demolish" but instead has consistently used the words "relocate" in reference to the issue concerning the temple.
As such, he also urged all parties to choose their words carefully, as certain statements could hurt or offend others.
He also gave assurance that the Madani government would not demolish the Dewi Sri Pathrakaliamman Temple and that the matter had been discussed with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
"I can guarantee that the rights of all races will be protected fairly. We will be fair to all races in this matter, particularly the Indian community.
"The issue here is that the land belongs to a private entity, but the government is still taking this matter seriously. The Prime Minister has discussed this with me and is very concerned about this issue. He also wants to find a fair and harmonious solution," he added. - Bernama
