INSPECTOR-GENERAL of Police Abdul Hamid Bador was spot on when he came out with a stern warning to all parties across the socio-political divide to behave themselves and stop stirring up racial sentiments.

Although Dr Zakir Naik has apologised, it has come late. He has stirred up a hornets’ nest in our multicultural society.

The police, who are responsible for keeping the peace, have emphasised that there will be swift action against those who intend to create unrest. It is timely.

We do not need preventive laws for this, as there are ample provisions in the Penal Code which will give police the necessary seizeable powers, depending on the classification of the relevant report.

Although Zakir’s apology is shallow and his sincerity is questionable, we must be magnanimous in accepting it. It will be in the spirit of New Malaysia. More so with Merdeka Day just around the corner. 

Having said so, we must not forget the dangers of such a preacher and must ensure people like him, be it from any religion, colour or creed, must never be allowed to break up the racial harmony in Malaysia. The stakes are simply too high and thus, he must leave the country or face possible charges.

There has been an avalanche of racial rhetoric by many people from all walks of life here and many did so with utter contempt for others in the name of free speech. Zakir is merely the symptom of what is happening around us. 

It is a fine line and the police have their work cut out in deciding which socio-political elements are a breach of the peace, creating disharmony and racial unrest, deliberately.

The fact remains: there are always limitations to the notion of free speech and the police must always be seen to be fair and just, whenever criminal investigations commence.

Firm, effective and swift action must be taken against anyone, regardless of whoever they may be. All statements, conduct or deeds that create racial unrest must be dealt with by the rule of law in the strictest interpretation available.

We have so much more to progress and achieve as a great and vibrant nation. The melting pot available is simply too exciting to miss just because some people subscribe to religious supremacy.

We must work hard towards bringing race, colour and creed as one for the nation while leaving religion to one’s own.

It is heartening and assuring to hear that the IGP is stepping in decisively now, and this will, in due course ensure a stable socio-political landscape. This will be conducive for us all to progress as one. – August 21, 2019.

* G. Selva reads The Malaysian Insight.

* This is the opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of The Malaysian Insight. Article may be edited for brevity and clarity.