Don T Pour Oil On Fire Speaker Warns Against Racist Remarks

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All parties must exercise caution and responsibility when making comments or expressing views that could inflame tensions and disrupt the harmony of Malaysia’s multiracial society.
Dewan Rakyat speaker Johari Abdul stressed that every opinion should be grounded in facts, warning against reckless statements that could “pour oil on the burning fire.”
“If this is how we act, it’s extremely dangerous. That’s why we must be fair - to ourselves and to society. Get the facts right first,” he was quoted as saying by Bernama.
Although the article did not mention any specific incidents, it is believed that Johari was commenting on the polarised views surrounding the relocation of a Hindu temple in Kuala Lumpur.
Malaysia has been grappling with heightened racial and religious tensions, with the recent incident further testing the nation’s social fabric.
Johari told reporters this at the Malaysian Muslim Restaurant Owners Association (Presma) Rice Assistance Programme to 3,333 asnaf (tithe recipients) in conjunction with Hari Raya Aidilfitri at Maahad Tahfiz Al-Faridiyah in Taman Seri Rampai, Setapak, Kuala Lumpur.
Also present were Deputy Inspector-General of Police Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay and Presma president Jawahar Ali Taib Khan.
Earlier today, Malaysiakini reported Urimai deputy chairperson David Marshel urging the government to act against hate speech on Google Maps.
He revealed that certain quarters have labelled Hindu temples as “kuil haram” (illegal temple) on Google Maps.
“This is not only offensive but also a direct insult to the Hindu community in Malaysia. Many of these temples have existed for over 50 years, primarily in estates and suburban areas where Indian labourers have lived and contributed to the nation’s development.
“Labelling them as ‘illegal’ is an act of disrespect and discrimination,” he said. - Mkini

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