PETALING JAYA: Several parties have called on all sides to put an end to racially provocative politics fuelled by a handful of irresponsible individuals pursuing narrow personal and political agendas.
Malay Chamber of Commerce Malaysia president Norsyahrin Hamidon stressed that racial harmony is not merely a social value, but a fundamental pillar of the nation’s economic stability.
"The business environment depends heavily on social stability and investor confidence, which can only thrive in a peaceful country where citizens live with mutual respect."
“Malaysia derives its strength from the harmonious coexistence of its diverse communities. When certain parties choose to play with the fire of racial and religious sentiments, acting as ‘Batu Ronson’ (instigator), they not only damage social cohesion but also put the nation’s economic future at risk.
“Investors view social stability as the foundation of confidence. If the country is perceived as unstable due to the manipulation of racial and religious sentiments, it is not only society that suffers, but also economic opportunities and national development,” he said in a statement on Tuesday (March 17).
Meanwhile, Malaysian Indian Muslim Chamber of Commerce and Industry president Datuk Abdul Hamid PV Abdu said the community would not be swayed by attempts by certain individuals to divide society for political gain.
He noted that only a small group with vested interests continued to incite anger within the Indian community in an attempt to fracture unity and manipulate the situation for specific political purposes.
“A handful of individuals with their own interests are still trying to divide the Indian community by stirring anger and emotions. We clearly know who is provoking society, attempting to split the community in two while collaborating with opposing sides and continuing to fan racial sentiments,” he said.
He stressed that the majority of the Indian community sought national stability, better economic opportunities and harmonious relations among all races in Malaysia.
“The country’s economic condition remains strong and resilient. In fact, our financial performance is among the strongest in Southeast Asia and one of the most stable in Asia. This shows that the nation is on the right track, but there are those who are envious and uncomfortable with the government’s success today,” he told reporters in an interview.
Their comments followed the prosecution of four individuals suspected of acting as provocateurs, which led to rising racial tensions.
