Subscribe in a reader | Subscribe by Email | Abim slams Hindraf for 'seditious' words http://www.malaysiakini.com/news/75465 |
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The Muslim Youth Movement of Malaysia (Abim) has criticised Hindu Rights Action Force (Hindraf) for using 'subversive' and 'seditious' words in its documents to the British government. In a statement today, Abim expresses concern that some contents in various documents issued by Hindraf "constitute extreme, exaggerated and sensationalised allegations implicating the Muslim community in one way or another". "The use of terms and expressions such as 'ethnic cleansing', 'permanent colonization' of Indian Malaysians by 'Islamic extremists', 'Malay gangs' and (others) are clearly racially and religiously unjustified, seditious and borders on the subversive". However, the Muslim movement urges Malaysians to remain calm because Hindraf's view is not representative of all Indians in the country. No ill will The movement proceeded to warn those fighting for racial and religious interests to learn from history that such issues, if not carefully handled, may cause tensions to flare up. "When emotions are left unchecked and the communal temperature is too high, there's no guarantee that public order and safety can be maintained. "(We) condemn all forms of racial and religious extremism and urges peace-loving Malaysians not to take actions that may jeopardize peace, harmony, public order and safety in the country," it said. The NGO also viewed that relevant authorities should be allowed to regulate the exercise of freedom of assembly rights by taking into account the circumstances of each case. They urge the police to observe due restraint and be reasonable in exercising their discretion in handling the situation. Solidarity with all groups Abim was referring to the rally that took place last Sunday where about 30,000 people – mostly Indians – gathered at Jalan Ampang in Kuala Lumpur to participate in a rally organised by Hindraf to submit a memorandum to the British High Commission. The authorities had denied a permit for the rally and obtained a rare court order restraining the public from taking part. The police used tear gas and water cannon to disperse the crowd. "We also believe that the current situation is such that it is very irresponsible and dangerous for anyone to manipulate this issue to fan racial sentiments for any political or ulterior agendas," the movement added. Abim then reaffirmed its solidarity with the poor and marginalised communities and urged all parties to undertake continuous effort to improve their livelihood. |
