[UPDATED] GE15: my speech was taken out of context, claims Muhyiddin

KUALA LUMPUR – Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin claims a viral video clip of him purportedly inciting racial and religious tensions was selectively edited to create a false narrative against him.

In a statement today, the Perikatan Nasional (PN) chairman said his statement was “completely taken out of context”, and was circulated by his political opponents specifically to tarnish his image.

Muhyiddin noted how only a short portion of his approximately 55-minute speech in Johor was selected and disseminated through social media.  

“I specifically and unequivocally spoke about the need for political stability, the need to avoid corruption, the need for DAP to show restraint in its demands, and to respect the rights of all races in Malaysia, including the special rights of the Malays and the Malay rulers.

“In fact, at the 48th minute mark of the speech, I specifically and unequivocally stated the intention of PN to implement the Shared Prosperity Vision so that no race would be left behind.

“I also reiterated PN’s commitment to fairness and equality. My whole speech was to promote stability, (impart) fairness to all races and religions, and to uphold the rule of law.”

In the viral video, Muhyiddin allegedly suggested that Christians are working in concert with a group of Jews to promote and Christianise Malaysia. 

He labelled PH a “big danger”, when speaking of a video supposedly of a Jewish group discussing the possibility of Malaysia falling into the hands of the opposition, which would later sponsor them and the Christians.  

“Does this mean that a process of Christianisation will be taking place? And we have heard this account before, have we not?” 

Muhyiddin’s remark has drawn the ire of various quarters, including the Council of Churches of Malaysia, which expressed its shock at the irresponsible statement. 

PKR president Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had taken Muhyiddin to task, saying political opponents are running out of ammunition and are stooping low to garner support.  

Meanwhile, PKR deputy president Rafizi Ramli had earlier today said his party will file an election petition against Muhyiddin if the latter wins in his Pagoh parliamentary seat tomorrow. 

He had said that the statement is in violation of Section 4A of the Election Offences Act 1954, which prohibits, among others, the promotion of feelings of ill-will, discontent or hostility between persons of other races. – The Vibes, November 18, 2022