KUALA LUMPUR: Cooler heads must prevail regarding the issue of illegal temples, says Datuk Seri Mohd Khalid Ismail (pic).
The Inspector-General of Police said the issue has led to a rise in racial sentiments, adding that the “temperature must be lowered”.
“Essentially, this is an administrative issue involving land status, approval from local authorities, and compliance with planning and development laws. However, administrative issues like this can rapidly turn into religious and racial polemics when discussed openly in public spaces and on social media without proper control.
“The police are closely monitoring several recent developments that have the potential of becoming security flashpoints if not handled carefully,” he said at a press conference on Thursday (March 19).
He said social media campaigns urging the public to gather at places of worship with disputed status, as well as the spread of provocative videos and statements could incite anger among the communities.
“The police continuously pay attention to early indicators that could lead to rising racial tensions. This approach is important so that any issue can be addressed before it escalates into a more serious conflict.
“We will take firm action against any individual or group that violates the law or attempts to incite racial tension. However, at the same time, we must also understand that enforcement of the law alone is not sufficient to maintain social harmony.
“It requires the cooperation of all parties, especially community leaders, NGO figures, and community activists,” he said.
The IGP also applauded yesterday’s meeting between Malay and Indian NGOs to discuss the issue through dialogue.
“The police supports and greatly appreciates the commitment and spirit of national unity demonstrated by the parties involved.
“This indirectly helps the authorities maintain racial harmony in order to ensure national stability,” he said.
In a related matter when asked on the alleged double standards by bringing independent preacher Zamri Vinoth to courts in handcuffs, the IGP said that certain offences were bailable and others were not.
“So these actions are taken based on the law. The public may see them as different matters, but we enforce the law according to its proper legal provisions,” he said.
