Opposition cause of poor racial ties, says Chua

(The Star) – KLANG: Racial harmony in the country has gone downhill since the 2008 general election, said MCA president Datuk Seri Dr Chua Soi Lek.

Blaming Pakatan Rakyat politicians for the cause of the declining goodwill among the people, he said the Opposition continued to politicise issues regarding race and religion even after gaining control of several states.

“What we have seen since the last general election is non-stop politicking from the Opposition.

“They use every opportunity to turn everything into racial and religious issues.

“There’s no denying the relationship among Malaysians of different backgrounds since March 8, 2008 is not as good as before.

“There’s a lot of suspicion towards each other. This is unhealthy and uncalled for,” Dr Chua told a crowd of devotees at the Kuan Tian Kheng temple anniversary celebration in Pandamaran, near here, last night.

Singling out PAS, he said the party tended to politicise religious issues.

He also said the Pakatan parties were not being truthful when they said hudud law would not affect non-Muslims.

“A PAS leader has said they would shut down the Genting Highlands resort because of its gambling outlet.

“If that happens, thousands – including non-Muslims – will lose their jobs.

“Who said it won’t affect them?” Dr Chua asked, adding that DAP had kept silent on this matter.

He said religious freedom was a fragile thing and every section of society must do their part to protect it.

“The government of the day must practise moderation and the rakyat must practise tolerance and acceptance,” he said.