LAWMAKERS should engage more with their constituents on issues such as racial unity amidst the current racial tensions, said Subang Jaya assemblyman Michelle Ng. 

The will help in the process of learning and understanding each other’s religion. 

“We live in a multiracial society with different religions so it’s necessary for us to get to know one another in order for us to overcome what we do not know, 2hich is often the root of why we start to fear and be afraid,” she said, at the interfaith forum “Break the Ice, Not The Ties” organised by Pertubuhan Minda Progresif.

Ng said that interfaith forums are a good way to disseminate information to the people and bring society closer together. 

“We need to have difficult discussions and I always encourage residents to step out of their comfort zones to understand more about other religions.  

The first-term assemblyman said that she was quite saddened by the way racial and religious issues were played up by some quarters in the run-up to Merdeka. 

“I thought we had already overcome our differences but the recent incidents show that we have a very long way to go. 

“While there are still instances of racial comments, I still believe if we try hard enough we will be able to find it in us to overcome this collectively.”

She said it would be good if policymakers would engage with the people on the ground. 

“Politicians need to play a part and engage with the people at interfaith forums, town hall sessions and with the respective community leaders.” 

Malaysia Dhammaduta Association representative Kon Chee Min said the forum was enlightening. 

“This is a good way desensitise all the (racial) issues. We should engage more with young Malaysians to let them know that the unity of the country lies in their hands and not in those fanning hatred and division.” 

Kingdom Disciples Fellowship Rev Dr Raymond Yeoh said it was good to have a platform where people could share their views.

“This is a good way to create unity and harmony among all Malaysians.”

Malaysian Hindu Sangam representative S. Alagandran said more interfaith forums needed to be held to create awareness. 

“Don’t just have it for the sake of unity, but to educate the people of the importance of our different cultures and religions to (root out) any misunderstandings.”

Pertubuhan Minda Progresif consultant Sheikh Muhammad Qutub said the forum was a good avenue for people to interact and get to know one another’s faiths.

“This is a chance to express (ourselves). We don’t always get a chance to express what we feel and the faith that we follow.”  – August 31, 2019.