Syerleena urges swift action against those sowing discord

Syerleena urges swift action against those sowing discord

Published: Mar 7, 2024 8:40 PM


DAP lawmaker Syerleena Abdul Rashid has condemned the notes warning Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming not to challenge Islam which were scattered outside his parents’ house in Perak.

Stressing that it is not an isolated incident but rather a “stark reminder of the poisonous presence of religious extremism and hate-mongering tactics within our society”, she called for those who promoted such ideologies to be held accountable.

“It is deeply concerning when individuals resort to hate-filled tactics to sow discord among us. Such actions not only undermine our unity but also threaten the peace and stability of our nation.

“Authorities must take swift and decisive action against those responsible for spreading hateful messages, across all platforms, as there can be no room for intolerance in our society, and those who promote such ideologies must be held accountable,” she added in a statement this evening.

Syerleena said it is imperative that Malaysians, as citizens of a democratic and multiracial nation, reject and denounce discrimination or bigotry based on religion, ethnicity, or any other grounds.

“Religious extremism, in any form, poses a grave threat to the fabric of our society. It seeks to divide us along arbitrary lines, promoting intolerance and sowing seeds of discord among our fellow citizens. We must vehemently oppose such ideologies and work towards fostering an environment of mutual respect, understanding, and acceptance.

“It is deeply troubling and disheartening when irresponsible individuals resort to such despicable acts to sow seeds of discord and division among Malaysians. Such actions not only undermine the unity of our nation but also threaten the peace and stability that we all cherish,” she added.


Celebrate diversity

Syerleena said Malaysia’s diversity should be celebrated and cherished instead of being used as a tool for division and hatred.

“Respect for one another, regardless of our religious affiliations, is paramount. Malaysians must continue to recognise and uphold the inherent dignity and rights of every individual, irrespective of their beliefs or identity.

“Any attempt to undermine this fundamental principle is an attack on the values that define us as Malaysians.

“As responsible citizens, it is incumbent upon us to stand united against bigotry, hatred, and religious extremism.

“We must actively challenge and confront any form of discrimination or intolerance, both within our communities and in the public sphere,” she added.

Earlier, Malaysiakini reported that Nga’s mother, who discovered the notes, had lodged a police report.

Previously, Molotov cocktails were thrown into the house of Nga’s cousin, Beruas MP Ngeh Koo Ham, which is also located in Ayer Tawar.

The attack came in the wake of his suggesting that non-Muslim constitutional experts be appointed to the committee reviewing the jurisdiction of syariah courts according to the Federal Constitution, which he later apologised for and retracted.