PETALING JAYA: Datuk Seri Ramanan Ramakrishnan says Malaysians should stay united and not let those spreading hatred online threaten the nation's racial harmony.
He warned against attempts to cause tension and create divisions, particularly through social media.
"We have lived in this country for a long time in peace and harmony. In places like Sungai Buloh, one neighbour may be Indian and other may be Chinese, yet there has never been any issue.
"However, there are a few individuals trying to incite tension and create problems. These actions threaten the harmony and stability of our nation. We must not fall into that trap," he said at the Ziarah Madani Ihya Ramadan programme at Dewan Serbaguna Seksyen 7, Kota Damansara on Saturday (March 14).
Ramanan urged the public to be responsible when sharing content online and not spread material that could cause misunderstanding or conflict.
"Let us make sure the right message reaches the community," he said.
He also addressed the government's decision to scale down large Hari Raya open house events, saying it is part of efforts to practise prudent spending amid global uncertainties.
"It is not to stop people from celebrating. When ministries reduce spending, savings … are for the benefit of the people," he said.
The event, which attracted more than 2,000 people, also saw RM20,000 in contributions presented to children's welfare institutions, including orphanages and tahfiz centres, as part of efforts to support community programmes during Ramadan.
Ramanan also urged Malaysians not to waste food during festive periods.
"The country produces about 12,000 tonnes of food waste in a single month. Malaysians should be more mindful of consumption and avoid wastage during celebrations," he said.
