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Don't cross the line, M'sian ministers tell hate-mongers
Sarawak state leaders have warned those inciting hate and seditious remarks through blogs and online social media to not cross the line and risk political stability and racial unity in the country
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arawak state leaders have warned those inciting hate and seditious remarks through blogs and online social media to not cross the line and risk political stability and racial unity in the country.
Deputy Home Minister Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar said although freedom of expression may be practised in the country, Internet users on blogs and social networks should not cross the line and incite hate and anger.
He was commenting on anti-Christian and anti-East Malaysian sentiments expressed on Facebook in a page called 'Semenanjung Malaysia Anti Sabah and Sarawak' which mocked Christianity and East Malaysians. It contained photographs mocking Christianity, including one of a frog nailed to a cross which has angered many Sabahans and Sarawakians.
There were retaliatory Facebook pages with postings talking about secession and demanding that Sarawak and Sabah leave Malaysia.
Wan Junaidi said that although the government and the authorities were tolerant, laws were still in place and warned people not to take it too far.
Ruling Barisan Nasional affiliate Parti Rakyat Sarawak president Dr James Masing, a senior Dayak state minister, who also admitted that he was sometimes vocal and critical of the Federal Government, said it was better to improve federation rather than tearing it apart.
'I don't agree (with secession). I have sometimes been critical of the federal government's handling of the 'kalimah Allah' issue. But it was not to bring down the federation.' (**)
