Mujahid’s parroting of Chinese propaganda shows our blind spots in human rights

It is regrettable that the minister in charge of Islamic affairs describes concentration camps in the Xinjang province in China as “training centres” for the Uighurs.

Mujahid Yusof Rawa has been criticised by human rights organisations such as Amnesty International, over his choice of words to describe detention camps he visited.

Mujahid’s remark throws asunder Malaysia’s pretentions of being the champion of oppressed Muslims.

It appears that Malaysia is willing to modify its policy on Muslims in general when it suits its political and strategic purpose.

It is understandable that Malaysia has sought to embrace China for investments, but it is not clear why human rights abuses in China should be ignored.

China’s treatment of ethnic and religious minorities is of a serious concern to international human rights organisations.

In particular the treatment of the Uighurs in the restive autonomous province of Xinjang leaves much to be desired.

China has been grappling with the problems posed by Uighurs who are seeking cultural and religious rights.

Islam has been a powerful factor in the struggle of the Uighurs.

The Chinese government has been less than receptive to the demand posed by the Uighur activists and intellectuals.

China’s response was typical: hundreds, if not thousands, of Uighurs have been arrested and kept in rehabilitation camps which the officials have described as training places.

A BBC report has described these places as concentration camps where recalcitrant Uighurs are “educated” to become good citizens of China.

Mujahid, after he was given an official tour arranged by Chinese authorities, acknowledged these camps as “training centres”. Nothing can be further from the truth!

Is Malaysia only a champion of Muslims when it comes to the plight of Palestinians and the Rohingya?

It is silent on the treatment of Muslims in places like China, or for that matter in countries that Malaysia enjoys sound economic and strategic partnership.

In the past, when some Uighurs activists sought asylum in Malaysia, the request was denied and they were deported to China.

One wonders whether these refugees are still alive or interned in the concentration camps or “training centres”, according to our good minister.

Yes, there is nothing wrong in seeking investments from China or any other countries.

But there is a line to be drawn when it comes to human rights.

I am disappointed with Mujahid for toeing the Chinese official line.

P Ramasamy is the Penang deputy chief minister II. - FMT