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PRIME Minister Anwar Ibrahim warns all Malaysians to refrain from taking advantage of current issues involving religious mockery to further incite racial sentiments or sow seeds of hatred.
The accusations and perceptions suggesting that the government remains silent when Islam is insulted are baseless and constitute mere slander, said Prime Minister Senior Press Secretary Tunku Nashrul Abaidah, who stressed that anyone who insults any religion in Malaysia will be investigated and prosecuted according to the law.
He pointed out several high-profile cases as examples of the government’s firm stance.
For instance, in one case involving the mocking of the word "Allah" through the sale of socks, the company and supplier were fined RM60,000.
In another case, a man who insulted "Allah" was sentenced to a RM12,000 fine and six months in prison.
Other cases included a corn vendor who displayed a racially insensitive notice, which resulted in a RM400 fine, and entertainers Harith Iskander and Cecelia Yap, both of whom were fined RM10,000 for their involvement in similar offenses.
“These cases clearly demonstrate that investigations were conducted, legal action was taken, and sentences were handed down.
“All actions were based on existing laws, and each case, upon receiving reports, went through the legal processes of the country,” Tunku Nashrul said.
He also issued a strong message to the public, urging them to refrain from insulting any religion, culture, or ethnicity within Malaysia, emphasizing that such behaviour is unacceptable.
During a briefing broadcasted on the official Facebook page of the Prime Minister's Office (PMO), Tunku Nashrul addressed concerns about allegations of double standards in handling such cases.
He clarified that these accusations were unfounded and that the Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is fully aware of certain parties attempting to stir up racial sentiments and create perceptions of favouritism in the government's actions.
“This is a baseless accusation with no foundation whatsoever. Anyone who insults any religion in Malaysia will be investigated and prosecuted,” he reiterated.
Tunku Nashrul also warned against exploiting these issues to incite hatred or racial tensions.
He stressed the importance of unity, particularly in times when the country is on a positive trajectory of growth.
“Let us not allow trivial matters to undermine the strength and uniqueness of our nation,” he added.
Through this firm stance, the government seeks to send a clear message that it will continue to act against anyone who disrespects religious, cultural, or racial sensitivities in Malaysia. – March 6, 2025