Don’t be hasty to act over apostasy, says Mahathir

(Bernama) – Former prime minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad said the government should not be hasty in taking action on the alleged attempt to convert Muslims in the country into other faiths.

“It has to be studied first… at times the allegation is true, sometimes (it is) not true.”

“If we are hasty in our investigation, then when (the action is) wrong, people will no longer believe us.”

“Wait until correct information is obtained,” he told reporters after attending a breaking of the fast at Masjid Al-Ehsan, Batu 3, Kodiang, near Jerlun last night.

Also present were his wife Dr Siti Hasmah Mohd Ali and son Mukhriz, who is also the deputy international trade and industry minister and member of parliament for Jerlun.

Dr Mahathir said Muslims in the country should be concerned about the plight of those in need of assistance to avoid the possibility of a deviation in their faith.

“If no one looks after them and they are in difficulty, they may become attracted to those who offer them aid,” he said.

Meanwhile, Dr Mahathir said the people in this country must choose the right leader if they wished to see Malaysia continue to remain ahead in terms of development compared to most of the neighbouring countries.

“If we choose the wrong leader, they (the other neighbouring countries) will overtake us.”

“Don’t choose people who only want to become the prime minister but do not want to do anything,” he added.