KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 4 (Bernama) -- The Ministry of National Unity (KPN) takes seriously any form of religious extremism that could undermine social harmony and national security, its minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang said.
He stressed that the government will not compromise with any individual or group that misuses religion to spread hatred, create division or threaten public order.
“Although freedom of speech is guaranteed, it is not absolute and must not be abused to touch on racial, religious or royal institution (3R) issues,” he said when winding up the debate on the motion of thanks for the Royal Address for the ministry in the Dewan Rakyat today.
He was responding to an interjection by RSN Rayer (PH-Jelutong), who raised concerns over action against individuals alleged to have caused racial and religious tension, including the organisation of movements or gatherings that could disrupt public order.
Aaron said the matter is currently under investigation by the police (PDRM) with the cooperation of the Attorney General’s Chambers, adding that those involved will be identified and prosecuted under existing laws, including the Sedition Act, the Penal Code and the Communications and Multimedia Act
He added that the government will ensure social media remains a safe, ethical and responsible platform. No tolerance will be given to any form of extremism, whether in the physical or digital space.
On efforts to strengthen unity, Aaron said KPN has taken various approaches, including developing 19 community integration platforms and sites. These cover social, educational, sports and economic spaces to encourage interaction among Malaysians of different backgrounds.
He said the ministry, through the National Archives of Malaysia, is also working to bring the heritage and memorials of national leaders closer to the public. This includes the development of 11 memorials for key figures such as Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, with the collection of documents, personal items, photographs, and audio-visual and published materials to preserve the nation’s leadership legacy.
Aaron added that the National Historians Council has been established and is chaired by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, together with 17 experts. The council is tasked with overseeing and reviewing the writing of national history to ensure it is accurate, credible and based on evidence.
-- BERNAMA
