HINDRAF : ABIM URGES MALAYSIANS TO REMAIN CALM
The Muslim Youth Movement of Malaysia (ABIM) urges Malaysians of all
races and religions to remain calm following street protests by a group
Indian Malaysians led by Hindu Rights Action Force (HINDRAF) on Sunday.
ABIM notes with deep concern that some of the actions and contents of
various documents issued by HINDRAF, in substance and wordings constitute
extreme, exagerated and sensationalised allegations implicating the Muslim
community in one way or another. The use of terms and expressions such as
“ethnic cleansingâ€, “permanent colonization†of Indian Malaysians
by “Islamic extremists†“Malay gangs†and the like is clearly
racially and religiously unjustified, seditious and borders on the
subversive. However, we believe that this should not be the basis for any
unwarranted reactions from the Muslim community. We believe that although
there may be grievances amongst the Indian community, the majority of our
peace-loving Indian friends and mainstream Hindu organizations do not
harbor ill will or undue enmity against the Muslims and are also not
agreeable to the manner, style and approach erstwhile adopted by HINDRAF.
We would also like to reaffirm our solidarity
with the poor and marginalized amongst the Indian community and other
races in this country and urge the government and all parties to
undertake continuous effort to improve their livelihood.
Let us all be reminded that issues involving racial and
religious interests in our multi-communal society are very delicate,
sensitive and potentially explosive. Those who are fighting for racial
and religious interests should learn from our past history that such
issues, if not carefully handled, may cause tensions to flare up. When
emotions are left unchecked and the communal temperature is too high,
there’s no guarantee that public order and safety can be maintained.
ABIM condemns all forms of racial and and religious extremism and urges
peace-loving Malaysians not to take actions that may jeopardize peace,
harmony, public order and safety in the country. Although the freedom of
assembly and expression are recognised fundamental rights under our
Constitution and should generally be exercisable by all citizens, the
relevant authorities should be allowed to regulate the exercise of such
rights taking into account the circumstances of each case. At the same
time we urge the police to observe due restraint and be reasonable in
exercising their discretion in handling the situation. We also believe
that the current situation is such that it is very irresponsible and
dangerous for anyone to manipulate this issue to fan racial sentiments
for any political or ulterior agendas.
YUSRI MOHAMAD
President
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