Putra’s threat highly regrettable, says MP

KUCHING: Bandar Kuching MP Dr Kelvin Yii slams Parti Bumiputera Perkasa Malaysia (Putra) for allegedly threatening a school in Puchong to take down its Chinese New Year decorations.

He said it was ‘highly regrettable’ that certain quarters in Malaysia were deliberately choosing to spread fear and divisive sentiments among the people.

“Their argument that festive decorations in any public place, be it for Hari Raya, Chinese New Year, Deepavali or any other festive occasions, is unconstitutional, is unfounded and therefore, not legally binding.

“I regret the actions of the principal who gave in to the threats of such extremists, as they should not have taken heed of Putra’s baseless threats, and the school should have maintained the decorations,” Dr Yii said.

He also said that Malaysians had long enjoyed festive occasions together and such a tradition should continue.

“I have yet to hear of anyone forcing their religion upon anyone else on such festive occasions, and I doubt that the said decorations contain any religious elements, and were merely decorative in nature.

“It is time for us to build bridges between races in this country especially at a time when racial tensions seem to be at an all-time high,” he added.

Dr Yii also said that the Education Ministry should launch an inquiry into this matter, and subsequently set a proper guideline to avoid future incidents of baseless threats.

“Schools should be a place to foster understanding, tolerance and respect. It should not be held at ransom by bigots and extremists in our society. I hope the authorities will also come down on these extremists regardless of race or background,” he said.