SEREMBAN: Malaysians must continue to uphold national unity and harmony by rejecting divisive narratives that could undermine the country's multi-ethnic fabric, says DAP deputy national chairman Nga Kor Ming.
Speaking at the Kekal Harapan grand dinner in the Repah state constituency, the Housing and Local Government Minister criticised PAS president Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang for describing DAP supporters of various ethnic backgrounds as "pendatang" (immigrants), saying the remark was racist and outdated.
He also rebuked PAS election director Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor over what he described as racially-charged statements aimed at sowing division in Malaysia's multiracial society.
He said police reports have since been lodged over the remarks.
Nga urged Malaysians to reflect on the nation's shared history since Independence in 1957, stressing that diversity remains one of Malaysia's greatest strengths.
"Diversity is the pillar that has shaped the beauty of Malaysia since we achieved independence in 1957.
"We have lived and grown together in this country for seven decades. It is time for us to move forward as one big family, united by mutual respect, compassion and understanding," he said.
He accused Perikatan Nasional of practising "toxic politics" by spreading slander and hatred, saying such tactics were damaging the nation.
"Since police reports have been lodged, the authorities must act swiftly to safeguard national unity and harmony," he said.
Nga said Malaysia was built through the collective efforts of people from all races, adding that unity and harmony remained the key to ensuring the country's continued progress and prosperity.
He urged Negri Sembilan voters to embrace a more constructive and inclusive style of politics that prioritises the well-being of the people regardless of race.
Highlighting the Pakatan Harapan administration's achievements in the state, Nga said Negri Sembilan had recorded its highest-ever investment value of RM19.1bil, accumulated record state reserves of RM1.31bil achieved its highest state revenue, and posted budget surpluses for four consecutive years.
He added that the state government had also introduced various welfare initiatives, including assistance for senior citizens, single mothers, public university students, free bus services, newlyweds and newborn children.
Nga said the Housing and Local Government Ministry's efforts in Negeri Sembilan further reflected the Federal Government's commitment to improving the people's welfare.
Among the achievements, he said, were the construction of 1,385 Rumah Mesra Rakyat units to provide affordable housing for lower-income families, as well as the revival of the stalled PR1MA Rantau housing project, enabling more than 700 purchasers to finally receive the keys to their homes.
"The Federal Government under Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and the Negeri Sembilan administration led by Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun are a strong partnership that will drive the state's future development. Let us maintain this momentum," he said.
Nga concluded his speech by expressing confidence that Malaysia would become a more prosperous and harmonious nation for future generations through mutual respect and cooperation among all communities under the Pakatan Harapan government.
More than 2,000 people attended the dinner, with the strong turnout boosting Pakatan Harapan supporters' morale ahead of polling day on Aug 1.
Present were Repah candidate P. Veerapan, DAP national chairman Gobind Singh Deo and secretary-general Anthony Loke.
