Ahmad Zahid among nine to be called up over racial remarks

KUALA LUMPUR: Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department P. Waytha Moorthy are among the nine who will be called by the police over recent comments that apparently caused racial tension.

The others are Pertubuhan Jaringan Melayu Malaysia president Datuk Azwanddin Hamzah Ariffin Abu Bakar, blogger Ragvinder Singh Jess, G3 deputy president Amran Ahmad Nor, Tanah Rata assemblyman Chiong Yoke Kong, Tras assemblyman Chow Yu Hui, Lau Shan Thean and Muhamad Edi Mohamad Riyars aka Edi Rejang.

They were named by Deputy Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Noor Rashid Ibrahim in a press conference yesterday at Bukit Aman.

“The police viewed very seriously the recent statements issued by various parties that touched on religious and racial sentiments,” he said, noting that more than 160 police reports were lodged.

He said police valued the right to free speech.

“However, that right should be within the confines of the law. The police will not hesitate to take action to ensure public safety and national security is maintained,” he said.

He said investigation papers had been opened under the Penal Code related to public mischief and criminal intimidation, among others.

On the rally on Dec 8 concerning the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination, Noor Rashid said the organisers had already submit- ted their application.

“We will interview the organisers. This is to make sure the organisers will ensure the rally will abide by the law and that it will proceed peacefully,” he said.