STEVEN Sim Chee Keong, Deputy Secretary-General of the Democratic Action Party (DAP), has vowed to stand firm against Pas Sungai Buloh chief Zaharuddin Muhammad, who has threatened legal action over a dispute concerning the appointment of Datuk Johnny Lim Kean Seng as Lieutenant General in the Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM).
In a social media post on Thursday, Steven Sim revealed he was informed that Zaharuddin intends to pursue legal proceedings against him.
“Earlier this morning, during a speech at an ASEAN-level forum organised by the Malaysian Institute of Islamic Understanding (IKIM) and WADAH, someone informed me about Zaharuddin’s statement indicating his desire to take legal action against me,” he said.
He accused Zaharuddin of inciting racial sentiment by exploiting a photo of the appointment of a Chinese Malaysian Lieutenant General, adding, “His own party has also acknowledged that its members behaved similarly in their media statements.”
The Minister of Human Resources stressed that he was merely speaking out against such racial actions and defending the integrity of the Armed Forces.
“Now you want to take legal action against me? I will not back down from opposing that Pas leader who is racist, bigoted, and insulting to our servicemen. I await the lawyer’s summons,” he declared.
Steven Sim added his cause is modest compared to the greater values of Malaysian unity and the sacrifices and dignity of ATM personnel.
“I once again urge the authorities to take firm legal action against Zaharuddin,” he added.
Datuk Johnny Lim made history as the first Malaysian of Chinese descent to be promoted to Lieutenant General. The rank was conferred by Chief of Defence Forces, General Tan Sri Mohd Nizam Jaffar, in a ceremony witnessed by all service chiefs at Wisma Pertahanan last Monday.
Pas has reportedly expressed regret over Zaharuddin’s remarks. The party’s Secretary-General, Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan, said that Zaharuddin’s views do not represent the party and contradict its policies and constitution. - June 26, 2025
