SEREMBAN, July 29 (Bernama) — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today reminded all parties not to use race-based politics as a platform to gain public support, saying such an approach would only divide society and undermine national harmony.
He said the government would not compromise with any party that sought to exploit racial, religious or hateful sentiments, as the country’s peace and stability depend on the ability of all communities to live together in harmony.
Anwar said it is the government’s principle to safeguard the rights of the Malays while ensuring the Chinese community receives fair opportunities and the Indian community is not marginalised, in addition to continuing to protect the interests of the people of Sabah and Sarawak.
“The country cannot remain peaceful and secure if we keep fuelling racial tensions. We remain committed to the MADANI Government’s inclusive approach to governing the country.
“No one can dispute the position of the Malay language, Islam and the Royal Institution. But we must also accept the reality that, to ensure this country remains safe and secure, we must embrace all communities,” he said at a Ramah Mesra (friendly gathering) with the Indian community here tonight.
Also present were Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil, Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri R. Ramanan, as well as leaders of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and prominent members of the local Indian community.
Anwar said, however, that the MADANI Government’s inclusive approach had exposed it to various perceptions and attacks from parties promoting different narratives.
He said some had accused the government of failing to safeguard the interests of the Malays by allegedly giving greater attention to the Chinese and Indian communities, while others claimed that the Indian community had yet to receive the support it deserved.
“Out there, there are those who claim this government has failed to protect the interests of the Malays because it is supposedly only looking after the Chinese and Indian communities… At the same time, there are others asking why the Indian community continues to face various problems.
“All government policies and initiatives are implemented based on the needs of the people, regardless of race, and not on political considerations or racial sentiments,” he said.
He also reminded the people that, after nearly seven decades of independence, they should no longer be influenced by narratives that could divide society.
Meanwhile, Anwar, who is also Pakatan Harapan (PH) chairman, urged voters at the PH campaign event at the Perniagaan Betaria premises to make a wise choice by electing leaders who prioritise good governance and racial unity in the Negeri Sembilan state election this Saturday.
He said a state’s stability and progress depend on transparent governance and leaders’ ability to work together regardless of ethnic background, while stressing that integrity and sound financial management must be given serious attention to ensure the nation’s wealth and resources are not misused.
“That is why I say we want good Malays, good Chinese and good Indians. Only then can we work together and govern (the state) well. This country has enough to meet everyone’s needs… but if everyone wants to steal and be corrupt, it will never be enough. So please, save this state and this country,” he said.
Also present were DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke, Amanah president Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu, his deputy Datuk Seri Dr Mujahid Yusof Rawa, as well as several PH candidates contesting the state election.
The Negeri Sembilan state election has drawn 103 candidates contesting 36 state seats, with polling involving 867,151 ordinary voters set for this Saturday (Aug 1).
For the latest updates on the state polls, visit https://prn.bernama.com/n9.
— BERNAMA