Filter information that threatens unity – minister

TENOM: Members of the Area Neighbourhood Watch (KRT) should be smart to filter information spread through social media, which could threaten unity and harmony of the people, said Rural Development Minister Datuk Radin Malleh.

He said KRT’s efforts in organizing community programs such as gotong-royong and open house events in conjunction with celebrations, would enhance unity and cooperation of residents in the area concerned..

“Thus, KRT bodies are encouraged to organize community programs such as gotong-royong and open house events more often to strengthen unity of the people in Sabah,” he said at the KRT Chinese New Year open house at Kampung Bahagia here recently.

Also present at the ceremony were Radin’s wife Datin Angeline Tom, National Unity and National Integration Department officer Azrin Maraim, KRT chairman Tay Kok Hiong, community leaders and villagers.

He added that non-Muslims, especially the Chinese, had always been free to practise their customs and beliefs, and also receive government funding every year.

“I am grateful to the Muslims and Christians in the state who have always respected and trusted each other to organize open house like the event today.

“The differences in our beliefs and culture should not be an obstacle for us to constantly interact and cooperate with each other for the sake of progress and peace of our country,” he said.

Radin, who is also the state assemblyman for Melalap, called on the people of various races in the state, especially residents in this area, to always exercise tolerance and unity for the sake of the well-being and advancement of their area.

He said the understanding among the people of this state had also become a role model for other communities in the country.

Radin added the government would act against any group that carried out activities that could threaten security and harmony among the people in this country.