Malaysian PM condemns beheading of compatriot

Malaysian Prime Minister (PM) Najib Razak condemned the beheading of Malaysian national Bernard Then by the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG), calling it “savage and barbaric act”.

He demanded that the perpetrators be brought to justice.

The beheading happened hours after Najib arrived in the country for the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Leaders’ Summit, and it came just as the APEC leaders, including US President Barack Obama, were set to issue a declaration condemning the recent terrorism in France.

In his Facebook page, the Malaysian Prime Minister posted: “I, the government, and all Malaysians are shocked and sickened by the murder of our countryman Bernard Then and we condemn it in its strongest terms.”

“We call upon authorities to take action against those who have perpetrated this savage and barbaric act and ensure that they are brought to justice,” it added.

He also said they will extend “full cooperation to relevant agencies and authorities in charge of the investigation of this incident” as he expressed his condolences with the victim’s family.

The Malaysian leader’s statement came as both Christian and Muslim groups condemned the beheading.

Marbel Bishop Dinualdo Gutierrez described the act as “immoral and inhuman” while Malolos Bishop Jose Oliveros also condemned the act.

“Violence and killing must always be condemned no matter what the reason. It’s obviously for propaganda purpose. We pray for the victim,” Oliveros said.

Cubao Bishop Honesto Ongtioco was angered by the incident but said faith teaches us “to forgive, to have faith, to pray and hope for the conversion of sinners,”

The Imam Council of the Philippines (ICOP) likewise expressed their condemnation, with ICOP chairman Aleem Said Ahmad Basher saying: “Don’t hurt your fellow men.”