(From today's Wall Street Journal Asia.)
Malaysia Protects Racial Harmony?
Your Oct. 22 editorial "Malaysian Hindus" relating to the Malaysian Hindu Rights Actions Force (Hindraf) suggests that our government does not allow peaceful protests. We do. All Malaysians have freedom of speech and the right to protest peacefully. Peaceful protest, however, does not involve inciting racial and religious hatred or endangering the public. With rights come responsibilities, and this is the same in every democracy.
Ahead of demonstrations, Hindraf repeatedly did not inform police or get permits. Their rallies were illegal and turned violent, with significant damage occurring to property and serious injuries being inflicted on the public and police. Hindraf are an extremist organization. In an interview with Singapore's New Paper, one of Hindraf's leaders was reported as saying that violence may be used by some and civil war was unlikely but a possibility. The organization has incited racial and religious hatred, attempting to drive a wedge between Indians and other races. It is clear that if Hindraf's activities are not stopped, public safety and the cohesion of Malaysia's multiracial society will be at risk.
This action is against extremism, not against Hindus. We have and will take action against any individual or group that is inciting racial or religious hatred, regardless of their political affiliation. This is why we have banned many extremist Muslim groups in recent times. The top priority of any government is to protect the security of its citizens.
Hindraf does not represent all Malaysian Hindus or Indians. The Indian community is represented by legitimate, elected state assemblies and members of Parliament whom the government meets regularly. We will continue to work with them closely and listen to all communities in Malaysia as part of the normal democratic process. Malaysia's multiracial harmony is one of our country's great strengths and must be protected.
Syed Hamid Albar
Minister of Home Affairs
Putrajaya, Malaysia
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