Probe Bertindak for ‘sedition’, says Chew
PETALING JAYA: Groups which hold racist and extremist attitudes such as the newly formed Malay NGO Barisan Bertindak Melayu Islam (Bertindak) should be investigated under the Sedition Act.
MCA vice-president Datin Paduka Chew Mei Fun made this call after Bertindak called for a review of citizenship granted to Malaysians between 1957 to 1970.
“Bertindak’s demand and Perkasa (chief) Ibrahim Ali’s warning that “if you disturb us, we disturb you” remark made on April 26 is dangerous and serves to threaten an outbreak of vigilantism and reprisals against nonexistent enemies.
“It will also incite hatred and distrust among the races and polarise the society,” she said in a statement yesterday.
Chew said the Barisan Nasional-led federal government under the premiership of Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak has all the while mooted the concept of 1Malaysia and extols moderation.
She added that it was regrettable that there are still those who are trying to sow the seeds of racial discord.
The deputy women, family and community development minister said such a scenario is unhealthy in a multiracial and multi-religious country.
“Even before Merdeka, the country has long enjoyed the Muhibbah spirit of mutual respect and goodwill among all the different races.
“Statements made by Bertindak may end up causing societal instability,” Chew said.
She urged the authorities to investigate whether Bertindak is a registered body and identify it its aims and objectives as well as its officebearers.
Chew said all blue MyKad holders are Malaysian citizens, whose rights and privileges are accorded and protected by the Federal Constitution.
She said a more important issue is to address the status of many Malaysian children who, through no fault of theirs but because their Malaysian parents did not register their births, ended up stateless.