Doubts about gov't stance on Icerd among rally attendees' concerns

Protesters who were present at the rally against the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (Icerd) in the city centre today expressed their doubts with the Pakatan Harapan government over the matter.

One attendee in particular wanted the government to clarify whether the decision not to ratify Icerd was definite or just a postponement which could be reviewed in the future.

Zamri Dulhadi (above in photo), 34, questioned why the matter was not brought to Parliament. He believed that the matter was not over until the government confirmed its stance then.

"I came to show my appreciation to the government for retracting the decision to ratify Icerd. But as we know, it was not a hansard. So they can change their mind anytime," said Zamri, who came with his wife and son from Nilai, Seremban.

Mahathir had initially said that Putrajaya would sign all remaining unratified UN human rights treaties in September.

However, after backlash from Malay groups, the government announced last month that it would not ratify Icerd.

'Can't allow this to happen'

For 33-year-old Nur Aishah Zainal, she believed that the country doesn't need to ratify Icerd as Islam has taught its believers not to oppress other races.

"So I think there is no need to ratify it. I come here today to rally together with other Muslims to show our support against the ratification of Icerd," said the housewife from Nilai.

Meanwhile, Norsuna Ahim, who came with her toddler, said she supported the rally to defend Islam from Icerd.

"It is not right to do like this (ratify Icerd) and as Muslims, we cannot allow this to happen," she said.

The Sabahan had also peddled drinks during the rally.

When asked if she had concerns about bringing her daughter to the event, she said she was not scared as it was a peaceful rally.

Another protester, Nik Riduan, 58, from Kelantan, claimed that Icerd would diminish Malay rights and the Malay sultanate.

"I came here today because of many things, among them was to protest against LGBT (Lesbians, Gays, Bisexuals and Transsexuals) and Icerd ratification.

"This Icerd would infringe upon Malay rights and our kings, that is why the Malays are against it," said Riduan, who works as a labourer. - Mkini