KOTA KINABALU – The proposal to establish a government based on one race and religion is profoundly misguided, a United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (Upko) leader said today.
Party Youth chief Felix Saang said such a move would result in complications and jeopardise the unity cultivated among Malaysians all these years.
He said Malaysia has been built on the foundation of support from various races, and therefore the fundamental principle should not be disputed.
“It must be remembered that our country was formed based on the understanding of various communities of different races, ethnicities, customs, beliefs, and religions.
“I am very confident that the people of Sabah and Sarawak will strongly reject the idea or proposal because it can be considered absurd and outdated,” he said in a statement.
Saang said this in view of the proposal by Gerakan Pembela Ummah to establish a Malay-Muslim government without DAP in Selangor and Negri Sembilan.
Felix said Malaysia has practised the democratic system since its establishment in 1963, and that it is illogical for only one race to lead the country.
“The Malaysian constitution also gives rights and freedoms to all Malaysians. Why is there a proposal to restrict the rights and freedoms of other races in our country?”
In that regard, Felix said that authorities need to monitor and take action against extreme political movements like this.
He added that it is clear that some parties are using race and religion for their personal political interest.
“It needs to be prevented early before it becomes serious, because such actions will only harm the country, including the future of young people.” – The Vibes, August 20, 2023
