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THE death of 14-year-old student Zara Qairina Mahathir and the recent assault on the son of Pandan MP Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli represent significant challenges to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, says Pasir Gudang MP Hassan Abdul Karim.
Speaking on Sunday following a community event in Kampung Bendahara, Hassan warned that failure to address the incidents swiftly and transparently could foster damaging public perceptions of unseen interference in national affairs.
“We do not blame the current ministers as they are still new. Bullying and intimidation have been going on for decades, but the way we deal with these issues must be improved,” he said.
“First and foremost, do not attempt to conceal the problems. Face them head-on and act, even if it angers some parties. We must be firm and expose everything that has happened.”
“I am calling for a transparent investigation. No individual—including Members of Parliament or their families—should be subjected to threats,” he stressed.
Hassan emphasised that Malaysia is not a mafia state and that the law must be upheld without compromise.
“The Prime Minister’s stance on these issues is correct. However, the authorities must act swiftly and not wait for instructions.
“Politicians, NGOs and the public may speak out and demand action, but security agencies responsible for public safety should not be waiting on the Prime Minister to make a statement before they move. Follow existing SOPs.”
He added: “We do not want such cases to be swept aside. We demand the police’s full expertise to handle these incidents.”
Delays in response, Hassan warned, only heighten suspicions of interference from powerful interests.
While acknowledging that Zara Qairina’s case may be isolated, he stressed that no parent should feel their children are unsafe at school.
Turning to the recent threat against Rafizi, Hassan said the development reflects a troubling regression in Malaysian political culture.
“It seems we are moving backwards. This kind of threat is being used to silence outspoken politicians.
“MPs now feel unsafe when they speak out. There’s a need for caution because they fear intimidation. I am deeply saddened by this development.”
“The threat against Rafizi doesn’t only mark a regression in Malaysian politics—it also damages the country’s image, both in the eyes of the people and the international community,” he said. - August 17, 2025