PETALING JAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's use of the term "melalak" (howling) must be taken in context and not manipulated for narrow political purposes, said Angkatan Muda Keadilan.
The PKR youth wing's chief Muhammad Kamil Abdul Munim said AMK took a serious view of attempts to exaggerate Anwar's use of the term in a social media post concerning an alleged desecration of the Quran.
"The term must be understood in its proper context and not taken in isolation to create a misleading perception.
"It referred to the attitude of certain parties who hastily accused the government of failing to act, when in fact investigations and enforcement are being carried out in accordance with the law," Kamil said in a statement on Monday (March 2).
He added that Anwar's statement was not an attack on any individual or group, but a firm reminder that baseless accusations and political games would only worsen the situation and undermine public confidence in the country's institutions.
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He said the individual involved in insulting the Quran had already been arrested and investigations were being conducted thoroughly by the authorities, proving that the government had acted.
"Malaysia is a country governed by the rule of law, and every action must be based on legal provisions, not emotional pressure, political demands or populist calls," said Kamil, adding that in matters involving religious sensitivities and racial harmony, hasty action without due process could violate principles of justice and risk triggering greater tensions.
He then said AMK rejected narratives portraying the government as weak or inactive, adding that the Prime Minister’s statement should be seen as a rebuke of the culture that inflames sentiments before getting all the facts.
He urged all parties to stop manipulating the issue for political gain and allow the authorities to complete investigations without pressure or interference.
"As a multiracial nation, stability and national harmony must not be sacrificed for cheap rhetoric that inflames religious or racial sentiments.
"AMK will continue to stand firm in defending the rule of law and support the government’s efforts in ensuring peace, harmony and the dignity of the nation are preserved," he said.
The controversy arose after Anwar used the word "melalak" in a social media post responding to criticism over the government’s handling of an alleged Quran insult case.
Several opposition figures and critics took issue with the term, claiming it was insensitive, while his supporters said it referred to parties rushing to accuse the government before investigations were completed.
