PETALING JAYA: Violence can never be accepted as part the Malaysian political culture, say politicians from both side of the divide in the wake of the arson attack against Datuk Ngeh Koo Ham.
The Cabinet too, at its weekly meeting yesterday, strongly condemned the attack on the Beruas MP’s house in Ayer Tawar, Perak.
Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil, who is also the unity government spokesperson, said the Cabinet also reminded all Malaysians to always act in accordance with the law, including in managing differences of opinion.
“Don’t ever try to inflame sentiment or provoke people to break the law, especially if you have different opinions.
“The Cabinet has also warned of stern action against those who violate the law,” he said in a press conference here.
PAS secretary-general Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan also said differences of opinion did not justify going against the laws which endanger lives and properties.
The Kota Baru MP, who is also the Opposition chief whip in Parliament, said PAS regarded the attack on Ngeh as serious and condemned the act.
“No matter how you look at it, such a crime is unacceptable as it not only goes against the laws, but completely goes against the basic principles of a community living in peace and harmony.
“PAS believes that differences in opinion and beliefs do not justify any action which violates the laws and morals, especially that which endangers lives and destroys properties,” said Takiyuddin.
MCA president Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong called on the police to apprehend the criminals behind the Molotov cocktail attack and strongly condemned the act.
“This goes against Malaysian culture and indeed any civilised society. Those who break the law for any reason must face firm action and punishment by the court if found guilty.
“Malaysia is a civilised democratic society, and despite differing opinions and beliefs, we should not resort to violence and indecent acts to voice against what we disagree with.
“I urge all Malaysians to condemn such violence,” he said on his Facebook post yesterday.
Dr Wee added that he personally called Ngeh to express his concern and sympathy towards him and his family while urging them to stay strong.
The Ayer Hitam MP also hoped for them to remain resilient.
DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke said any form of violence was unacceptable in dealing with differences in society.
He added that the party strongly condemned the violent attack that threatens the safety of Ngeh and his family.
“On behalf of the entire DAP leadership, I sympathise and express solidarity with his family.
“We are confident the police will act decisively and quickly to investigate and arrest the parties responsible for the crime,” he said.
