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WHILE MIC deputy president Datuk Seri M Saravanan has every right to defend Hinduism, engaging in a debate with controversial preacher Zamri Vinoth is a mistake.
According to Prof Dr P. Ramasamy, debating an ill-informed, prejudiced individual like Zamri would only give him undeserved legitimacy.
The chairman of the United Rights of the Malaysian Party (Urimai) said despite being a former Hindu, Zamri lacks any substantial knowledge of Hinduism, let alone the intricate significance of the Kavadi ritual.
“He was, at best, a nominal Hindu before converting to Islam, and his views on Hinduism are rooted in bias rather than understanding.
“Zamri’s repeated derogatory remarks against Hinduism indicate that he does not seek meaningful discourse.
“His aim is not to engage in an intellectual discussion but to belittle and attack Hindu traditions to win favour among his religious patrons in Perlis,” the former Penang deputy chief minister said.
Ramasamy said if the debate proceeds, it will serve as a platform for Zamri to spew further hate, under the guise of discussion.
Given his history of deleting critical comments on his Facebook page, it is evident that he cannot handle criticism—how then can he participate in a fair and respectful debate? he asked.
“Also, Saravanan, a respected political leader, engaging in a debate with Zamri—a socially and politically insignificant figure—only elevates the latter’s status.
“Debating a person like Zamri is akin to granting him the credibility he craves, something he has neither earned nor deserves,” he said.
Rather than debate a half-baked preacher, Saravanan should push for legal consequences against Zamri for his hate speech, said Ramasamy.
“If an open debate on Hinduism is truly necessary, it should be with scholars and intellectuals, not with someone who thrives on religious provocation,” added Ramasamy.
Zamri had earlier accepted Saravanan’s challenge to a debate on Hinduism, following the public outrage over his remarks on the kavadi ritual.
Zamri confirmed his willingness to debate in a Facebook post, responding to Saravanan’s challenge in Tamil.
“Who is ready to organise it? Where will it be held? What is the topic?” he said.
In response, Saravanan said the debate would focus on Zamri’s claim that Hindu worshippers performing the kavadi ritual appeared to be “possessed and drunk on toddy.
Saravanan proposed that the debate be held on March 23, with Dewan Bahasa Tamil Malaysia as the organiser.
“As for the venue, Zamri can select any location in Kuala Lumpur,” he added. – March 7, 2025