Be more forgiving of George Town Festival 2024 teaser video, says Zaid Ibrahim

 

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GEORGE TOWN: Malaysia was developed by all races, says former law minister Datuk Zaid Ibrahim in response to the George Town Festival 2024 (GTF2024) teaser video.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Zaid questioned why some politicians are sensitive about the video

"An assemblyman from Penang was upset that the video did not show Malay cultural performers. They are so sensitive over such a small thing; they want George Town to be removed as a heritage site," said Zaid.

Zaid then added that some Malay supra-nationalists think they can use history to remind the non-Malays that Tanah Melayu is primarily theirs.

"History also taught us that the country was developed and made it what it is today because of the hardworking non-Malays, who are Malaysians too," said Zaid on X on Wednesday (July 24).

"So can we be more forgiving of one another, as I am sure the George Town video was not balanced due to an oversight and it was not a deliberate political message to obliterate Malay culture," he added.

The organisers of GTF2024 have since apologised for the teaser video saying they tried their best to ensure inclusive, comprehensive and balanced representation.

They said this year's festival would feature eight programmes by Malay representatives. - Star