Najib: Malays have been slapped once too often
PM says the pain of being “slapped” repeatedly drove the Malays to take to the streets in a desperate bid to restore their dignity.
(Free Malaysia Today) – Those who have continued to wear down the dignity of the Malays have gone overboard, ultimately resulting in the Malays taking to the streets in a desperate bid to restore their dignity, said Prime Minister Najib Razak.
While warning the public against continuing to rip apart the dignity of the Malays, he said it was time everyone starting respecting each other.
He said this at the Himpunan Silat Merdeka (Merdeka Silat Gathering) held at Dataran Merdeka last night and explained that the Malays could no longer bear the pain of being “slapped” over and over again, hence the reason why many took to the streets on Wednesday for Himpuan Kebangkitan Maruah Melayu (Rise of Malay Dignity Rally).
“They slapped us once, twice, three times, that’s fine. But when they slap us for the fourth time, they have gone overboard,” he said referring to the Bersih rallies that have been held four times already.
“Malays too have the right, Malays too can show that we can stand up when our dignity is being ripped apart and our leaders mocked,” said Najib during the event which was also attended by Socio-Cultural Adviser to the Government Rais Yatim, Dewan Negara Speaker Abu Zahar Ujang and Pesaka President Ali Rustam.
During his speech, Najib also announced that Silat be recognised as the country’s official form of Martial Arts.
He said, despite being ridiculed, Malays continued to reign in their anger and rallied peacefully on September 16 to show their respect for the constitution and other races.
“I congratulate everyone who attended the rally (Red Shirts). The Malays rallied peacefully and obeyed the law.
“Were there any banners promoting hatred about other races? Were there any pictures of opposition leaders that were stomped on? We are not like the Opposition when they hold street rallies. Malays abide by the country’s laws.”
