Tuesday, December 27, 2011

DPM: Christians 'stirring discontent' over Article 153



Deputy Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin today said that it is “incorrect” to see the implementation of Article 153 of the federal constitution as ‘bullying’ the minority.

Speaking to reporters at UiTM Puncak Alam, the DPM said that raising such matters only serve to “stir discontent”.

“This is an incorrect interpretation. (The article) is part of the constitution and has its historical background and rationale...

“I hope there will be no debates sparked over this matter... as it only raises racial feelings (perasaan perkauman) and discontent which is not good for the country and our unity,” he said.
National Evangelical Christian Fellowship chairperson Reverend Eu Hong Seng had on Saturday said that there is constant talk about the rights of the majority, under this Article, but minority rights are hardly spoken of.

In his opening speech at the annual Christmas hi-tea organised by the Christian Federation of Malaysia, he opined that this is tantamount to “bullying”.

‘BN gov’t fair to all’

According to Muhyiddin, what is important is the interpretation of the Article through government policies.

“For example, the BN government’s policies have been fair and just to all races. We strive to solve the social, economic, education etc problems of all sections of society,” he said.

As such, he advised all quarters to “hold on to what has been implemented for 54 years”.

“This is (Eu’s) view, but the government feels that these matters should not be disputed as it is something that is enshrined in the constitution and has its historical background,” he said.

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