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SETIAWANGSA Member of Parliament Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad has called for a balanced and constructive response to the recent ‘Turun Anwar’ rally, stressing the importance of upholding democratic freedoms while rejecting religiously charged political rhetoric.
In a social media post on Wednesday, Nik Nazmi thanked both the government and police for their cooperation with the organisers and participants of the rally.
“Although there are political differences, and I do not support the message of the rally, the people’s right to peaceful assembly is a vital pillar of democracy,” he wrote.
“In this regard, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s open attitude towards the demonstration should be appreciated.”
However, Nik Nazmi expressed regret over the actions of Jasin MP, who led a Qunut Nazilah prayer — a special supplication in Islam, recited during times of calamity or distress, to seek Allah's protection and help — during the rally, implying that the current government is hostile to Islam.
“The political differences should not be cloaked in religious hatred. It is worth recalling that PAS once prayed for the destruction of their political opponents, including Dr Mahathir, who now stands with them,” he said.
“When they were allied with not only KEADILAN but also the DAP – now painted as enemies of Islam – many religious justifications were offered for their political choices.”
Nik Nazmi also warned against overreaction to certain aspects of the rally, such as the amount of rubbish left behind.
“Focusing on issues like litter may seem trivial but could be interpreted as mocking the people’s grievances, or worse, as a subtle racial message,” he said.
“That may not be the intention, but politics is about perception. It risks generating sympathy for the organisers while shifting attention away from the government’s openness and the opposition’s weak arguments.”
He urged the government to avoid defensiveness in the face of public criticism, including that expressed through demonstrations.
“Instead, it should be a catalyst to resolve the root issues troubling the people: cost of living, social justice, and the country’s economic future.”
“These are the policy matters that are often repackaged and inflamed with racial and religious sentiments for the sake of virality and votes – even if it leaves the rakyat destitute.”
He added, “The country’s future cannot be built on rhetoric, but on honesty, hard work, and a willingness to listen.” - July 30, 2025
