National Unity Minister Aaron Ago Dagang has downplayed concerns surrounding Kuala Lumpur City Hall’s (DBKL) recent crackdown on signages that do not prominently feature the Malay language as required under the law.
Speaking to reporters at the International Interfaith Peace Conference in Kuala Lumpur today, Aaron responded to queries by citing other cabinet ministers.
“I think the tourism, arts, and culture minister has answered that (so) I think there is no issue to me,” he said.
When asked if his ministry planned any specific programmes to prevent similar issues from recurring, he once again deferred the matter to other ministries and agencies.
“Let the Housing and Local Government Ministry, councils, (decide) this and that. To me, there should not be an issue,” he commented.
On Nov 21, DBKL launched a large-scale operation targeting illegal signages in several areas, including Segambut, Pudu, and Jalan Silang in the city centre.
The operation involved DBKL enforcement and licensing teams, officers from Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka, and the police.
The crackdown has sparked mixed reactions.
Bukit Bintang MP Fong Kui Lun criticised the raids, calling them overly hasty and disruptive.
Meanwhile, Tourism, Arts, and Culture Minister Tiong King Sing revealed that some tourists had questioned whether Malaysia was a racist or religiously extreme country. He urged DBKL to embody the cosmopolitan spirit of the city.
Tiong’s remarks prompted a response from Umno Youth Chief Dr Akmal Saleh, who alleged that the affected businesses were the ones perpetuating racism.
Papal visit
Separately, Aaron addressed the possibility of Malaysia hosting Pope Francis, known for his role in promoting interfaith relations.
When asked if the country was prepared to welcome the leader of the Catholic Church, either in Kuala Lumpur or Sarawak, where there is a large Catholic community, he replied briefly: “I hope so. We are open to it.”
In September, Pope Francis visited Indonesia as part of his Asia-Pacific tour. During the visit, he and Indonesia’s Grand Imam Nasaruddin Umar signed a joint declaration warning against the misuse of religion to incite violence and conflict.
“The global phenomenon of dehumanisation is marked especially by widespread violence and conflict. It is particularly worrying that religion is often instrumentalised in this regard.
“The role of religion should include promoting and safeguarding the dignity of every human life,” the declaration read. - Mkini
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