PRIME Minister Anwar Ibrahim has ordered security forces to be on alert if certain quarters were to play up racial and religious sentiments. 

He said those who harbour feelings of discontent will look to use these sentiments to provoke unrest in the country. 

“Any attempt made by anyone to pit one race against another, or to increase the racial and religious temperature in this country will not be permitted. 

“I have ordered security forces to be on the alert because those who are desperate or feel challenged will use these sentiments, and the poor will be paid to cause chaos,” he said after chairing today’s cabinet meeting in Putrajaya. 

Anwar, however, did not make any specific mention of any incidents or issues.

His statement comes after the director and an actor of local film “Mentega Terbang” received anonymous death threats and had their cars damaged by unknown persons yesterday.

There was also the incident of the Selangor Islamic Religious Council prohibiting Muslims from participating in programmes organised by non-Muslims for fear that these events may prompt an interest in other religions.

Its chairman, Abdul Aziz Mohd Yusof Aziz, was referring to advertisements and brochures being circulated on social media on Impact Malaysia’s “Projek Artikel 11” under the “Jom Ziarah” programme. 

The programme, which is under the purview of the Youth and Sports Ministry, involves visits to places of worship to increase awareness of the country’s diverse society.

Anwar also said the government will always uphold the principles enshrined in the Federal Constitution, which stipulates Islam as the religion of the country, while other religions may be practised in peace and harmony.

He added that any issues concerning matters that involve racial sensitivities must be resolved amicably to avoid potential conflict, misunderstanding or prejudice. 

“If there are any violations of any rules, or (if an issue) has touched on racial sensitivities, then these must be addressed through negotiations,” he said. – March 17, 2023.