Photo by Sam Fong/The Edge

KUALA LUMPUR (April 2): The interfaith harmony committee, jointly managed by the Ministry of National Unity and the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim), will convene an emergency meeting to address the escalating racial and religious tensions in the country.

In a joint statement on Tuesday, Minister of National Unity Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang and Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na'im Mokhtar condemned all recent incidents of racial and religious tensions that have threatened the harmony of the people.

"We strongly condemn all incidents that jeopardise the harmony of our people, particularly those involving racial and religious sensitivities," the statement read.

They urged the authorities, especially the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM), to take strict action against any parties violating the law and ensure they face justice.

"The involved parties need to be punished appropriately as a lesson to all," they said.

Both ministers also issued a stern warning to individuals against inciting past racial tensions to the extent of creating social discord among people of diverse races, religions and cultures in the country.

They reiterated their stance, urging that no party instigate matters that touch on religious sensitivities and should be in compliance with the Federal Constitution.

"The community must always uphold and practice life values, which are the responsibility of every citizen to protect and defend the stability and security of the country from any threats of conflict, provocation, and hostility," they stated.

A molotov cocktail was reportedly hurled at a KK Mart outlet in Jalan Satok, Kuching, on Sunday. This marks the third such attack in the country after the issue of socks bearing the word “Allah” first emerged on March 13.

The first incident was at a KK Mart outlet in Bidor, Tapah, on March 26, and the second incident was reported in Sungai Isap, Kuantan, on March 29.