Siti Kasim Slams Malays for Meddling in Others Affairs: Says Don't Embarrasses Malaysia

Siti Kasim Slams Malays for Meddling in Others Affairs: Says Don't Embarrasses Malaysia


4 May 2025 • 10:30 AM MYT


Kamran
A freelance content creator

Image Credit: Focus Malaysia


Prominent lawyer and human rights advocate Siti Kasim has voiced her outrage at Malays who, in her words, fail to "mind their own business" and instead make disparaging remarks about others, especially those with differing views or beliefs.


Her anger was sparked by recent online criticism targeting former Indonesian President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) and three special envoys who attended the Vatican funeral of the late Pope Francis. The criticism stemmed from the fact that they wore the songkok, a traditional cap often associated with Malay Muslims. A Malaysian content creator even accused Jokowi of reciting Al-Fatihah—a Muslim prayer—for the Pope, prompting widespread backlash.


Siti condemned this behavior, calling out the ignorance of netizens who rush to judge others without understanding cultural nuances. They think the songkok belongs exclusively to Muslims, she said in a recent YouTube video. But in Indonesia, Christians and Hindus may also wear it. That’s the problem with these busybodies—they tie a piece of clothing to religion without deeper thought.


She didn’t hold back in expressing her embarrassment over such behavior, particularly since it tarnishes Malaysia’s international image. She lamented that the ignorance and shallow religious knowledge are now on display for the whole world and it’s a disgrace that she has to partially bear because these people came from her own race.


Siti also pointed out the danger of such online actions, noting that even though some hide behind anonymous accounts, modern technology makes it easy to uncover real identities. “You’re dragging down the whole country because of your idiocy,” she warned.


Taking a broader swipe, she referenced past incidents involving Malaysian political figures who interfered in Singaporean affairs. Siti was particularly scathing toward two PAS leaders who encouraged Singaporean Malays to vote based on race and religion—an act that forced Singapore’s Prime Minister to respond diplomatically. Siti, however, didn’t hold back: “Let me say what he couldn’t—bugger off!”


Her central message was clear: stop interfering in matters that don’t concern you, especially when your own house isn’t in order. “Always ensure your own house is kempt before you start messing up the home of others … Start by ensuring that you bring up an intelligent family first before meddling in the business of others,” she said.


Siti Kasim’s remarks serve as a harsh but necessary reminder of the consequences of ignorance, prejudice, and online irresponsibility.