We followed closely the latest development of temple demolition in Rimba Jaya by the enforcement officers of MBSA (Shah Alam Municipal Coucil). Initial report indicated fracas took place between the devotees in the temple and the officers of MBSA, which inflicted some injuries to the public who were protecting their house of worship.
We regret the manner in which the enforcement handled the demolition procedures and subsequently has left a great impact on the bigger issues pertaining to religious sensitivity and tolerance in this country.
PAS therefore:
- Call all parties to observe restrain from further emotional response and call the government to act wisely by not dragging the issues and thus be exploited by certain quarters with some narrow minded interest and objectives.
Finally, PAS regret any move by a certain political party that views the matter solely on the impact of political consideration and thus disregarding the bigger issues of religious freedom, tolerance and above all the rule of law that need to be fostered, develop and further enhanced within the context of the Federal Constitution.
The writer is chairman of national unity, PAS
