KUALA LUMPUR – Datuk Seri R. Ramanan has cautioned that those attempting to incite racial tensions in Malaysia will face decisive action, emphasising that authorities will not permit a few provocateurs to undermine national harmony.
Speaking after a gathering with party leaders from various states, the Human Resources Minister said recent incidents circulating on social media and in public spaces had been unnecessarily escalated, risking ethnic discord.
“This issue used to be small. It is an isolated issue. Now it has become a sensation, it has been racialised and turned into a provocation, and this is fuelling the fire.
“It is creating a lot of racial tension and disharmony. This is unhealthy for Malaysia,” he said at a press conference today at Menara Perkeso.
Ramanan highlighted that Malaysia’s social fabric remains largely harmonious, noting that ordinary Malaysians of different ethnic backgrounds continue to live together peacefully.
“If we look at our party, we are a multi-racial party. You can see it here. There are Malays, Chinese and Indians. We break the fast together, we eat together and we don’t have any problems,” he added.
He alleged that the recent incidents were orchestrated by a small number of individuals seeking to provoke tensions deliberately.
“These are not groups, but a few individuals. These individuals are paid. They are agents of provocation,” he claimed, adding that such actors could not hold 33 million Malaysians to ransom.
Investigations are ongoing to determine who is behind these actions. Ramanan also reiterated the government’s warning against exploiting issues related to race, religion, and royalty — known as the 3R — for political purposes.
“Don’t play with the 3R issue. If there is no model, just sit quietly and serve the people. Don’t look for this model. It’s unhealthy,” he said.
According to the minister, these issues often surface ahead of elections, particularly when political actors have little else to criticise.
“Why is this happening now? Because the election is near. Because the country is peaceful and the economy is good, so the issue is to play with this,” he added.
Ramanan also warned those allegedly involved against provoking further tensions, stressing that the government would not fall into their trap.
“We will not fall into your game,” he said, adding that the matter would be raised for discussion in Cabinet.
“I will bring this to the Cabinet. That is my promise,” he added, pledging firm action and assuring that these individuals would be arrested and charged.
At the same time, he urged the public not to take the law into their own hands, emphasising that all citizens are protected under the Federal Constitution regardless of race or background.
He advised Malaysians to use proper channels when addressing such incidents.
“Our country has laws. If there is an issue, follow the right channels. Report to the police. If you are not satisfied, go to court,” he said.
Recently, activist Tamim Dahri and three others, linked to the alleged demolition of part of a Hindu temple in Rawang, were granted a two-day remand by the Selayang Magistrates’ Court. The High Court has directed the police to release the men immediately while investigations continue. - March 9, 2026
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