KOTA KINABALU: National unity is threatened by spreading falsehoods that incite racial and religious tensions, says Datuk Christina Liew (pic).
The Sabah Pakatan Harapan chairman asserted that growing political divisions in the country could be traced to racial sentiments propagated by the opposition that fueled tensions.
“Strengthening national unity is crucial because it binds us together and prevents conflicts that would only harm the country,” Liew said during the Parti Keadilan Rakyat’s Himpunan Perdana event at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC).
While she expressed confidence in Malaysians’ ability to unite, Liew warned of the dangers of political manipulation.
“The opposition today is dangerously playing up racial sentiments, trying to fracture our society with baseless accusations that could ignite racial and religious discord.”
She further claimed that the opposition’s divisive tactics stem from desperation, as they struggle to challenge the current government.
“They know they can’t topple the government due to our widespread support, so they resort to propaganda that could stir tensions, deter tourists, and undermine investor confidence in our country’s stability,” she added.
As the State Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Environment, Liew credited the Unity Government for prioritising national interests, which she said has helped make Malaysia's economy one of the strongest in the region, with a rapidly growing tourism sector.
“This success is a testament to the confidence in our country’s stability and the importance of national unity. PKR will play a vital role in driving and strengthening Malaysia as a united nation,” Liew said.
On the political front, Liew highlighted PKR’s commitment to working with other parties for the nation’s benefit, as evidenced by the Unity Government's leadership at the event.
Prime Minister and PKR President Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Sabah Chief Minister and Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) chairman Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor, and Sabah BN chairman, Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin, were among those in attendance.
“Although this is a PKR event, top leaders from all local parties came to show their support. We will continue to strengthen our unity to achieve our goals for Sabah and Malaysia with ease,” Liew said.
Reflecting on PKR’s journey in Sabah, Liew reminisced on the party’s 25-year struggle since its inception in 1999.
“PKR has always championed the people’s agenda, regardless of race or religion. I chose to join PKR from the start because I believed in its cause and was the first PKR candidate in Sabah in 2001,” she said.
Liew stressed PKR’s diversity, with members from various ethnic and religious backgrounds, and described the party as a true reflection of unity and loyalty to Malaysia, a nation formed from the distinct entities of Malaya, Sabah, and Sarawak.
“This party is trusted by Malaysians, as seen by our presence in all 222 parliamentary constituencies nationwide, including all 25 in Sabah,” she said.
