Political thuggery not our culture, says Salleh

The politics of gangsterism is not a culture practised in the country, said Communications and Multimedia Minister Salleh Said Keruak.

He said the commotion yesterday at a forum organised by the opposition should not have happened because it was unhealthy for the country’s politics.

"We must take a lesson from this incident. Firstly, the security aspect must be given importance when organising any programme.

"Secondly, the programme must be organised according to the conditions stipulated by law. Thirdly, abide by the advice of the security personnel. Fourthly, it must be remembered that the politics of gangsterism is not our political culture," he said in a post on his blog today.

Salleh was responding to the incident at the Nothing to Hide 2 forum in Shah Alam yesterday. A rowdy group caused a riot during the gathering which was also attended by Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (PPBM) chairperson Dr Mahathir Mohamad.

Salleh also hit out at opposition leaders including Selangor Menteri Besar Mohamed Azmin Ali who had claimed that the incident was orchestrated by Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak.

"I do not know where the Selangor MB received information and so fast that the PM was behind the incident," he said.

Responding to the incident, Umno Youth chief Khairy Jamaluddin said the incident should be condemned and not condoned and that those involved should be arrested.

Salleh said he anticipated a similar response from other political party leaders but, sadly, they are engaged in politicking all the time, "even when we are faced with such a challenge".

- Bernama