MINISTER in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Mohd Na’im Mokhtar has criticised the march by members of PAS Youth in Setiu yesterday, during which participants carried replica swords, spears and shields.

He said the march was inappropriate and gives a poor impression of Islam and the country.

“It is better for the organiser to highlight Islamic values that are peaceful that call for unity and well-being,” he said in a statement today.

Videos and photos of the procession held in a resort area in Setiu, Terengganu, yesterday went viral on social media.

Na’im said everyone was responsible for nurturing peace and harmony in society, adding that acts that cause uneasiness among the public should be avoided at all costs.

“This department is of the view that this matter should be left to the authorities to investigate and take action against the organiser if they have violated national security regulations,” he said.

Terengganu police chief Rohaimi Md Isa has been quoted as saying that the police are investigating the incident. – Bernama, February 19, 2023.