MP: Regrettable, unacceptable for Dr M to disparage Indian and Chinese communities
MIRI: Miri MP Chiew Choon Man has slammed Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad for his disparaging remarks on the Indian and Chinese communities in this country, which he described as regrettable and unacceptable.
He said despite being prime minister for two terms, he was surprised that such condescending remarks came from the senior politician who had served the nation for over two decades.
“This shows that Dr Mahathir together with the opposition has no other political capital except for their usual unwanted practice of playing racial and religious card,” he said.
Dr Mahathir had made the remarks during an interview with Chennaibased Indian satellite television channel, questioning the loyalty of Malaysian Indians and Chinese to the country.
Chiew said this was contrary to the focus and commitment of the Unity Government under the leadership of Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to foster and strengthen unity among people of all races and backgrounds in the country.
“This is the true formula that can bring the country forward,” he pointed out.
The Unity Government is a coalition of parties with different races, religions, regions and political views, but coming together with a common aim to unite the people and bring prosperity to the country, he added.
Speaking to reporters in Serdang after launching the Artificial Intelligence Untuk Rakyat programme on Monday, Anwar said it was unacceptable for Dr Mahathir to humiliate any people irrespective if they represent the majority or the minority of the population in the country.
He opined that the latter made the remarks to divert attention of the people from ongoing efforts by the present administration to eradicate corruption.