Pak Lah Warns People Against Abusing Freedom Of Expression

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi today issued a stern warning against those who exploit the freedom of expression and abuse it to cause unrest.

He said if the freedom was abused, it could lead to undesired developments by inviting extremists who could jeopardize national security and the government would not tolerate any form of violence.

"I have given much freedom and everyone can express their opinion, they can talk about many things but they should be wise in handling the freedom... if this is not appreciated, everything (freedom) will be lost," he said. If this freedom was lost, it would take a very long time to repair the damage done, he added.

The Prime Minister said many quarters, especially the mass media, frequently pointed out that he had given much freedom to the people to express their opinion. He said, however, the government was always careful and governed the country with wisdom to avoid any undesired developments.

He said the government had never marginalised any minority group or religion whether in the peninsula or in Sabah and Sarawak. Abdullah said the Malaysian government was unique as it had representatives from the various races and religions.

He said that the government's success in giving priority to solidarity had resulted in Malaysians sometimes forgetting their racial and religious differences and sat on a common platform feeling very safe and confident.

"We give attention to every group and implement what is best... (we) don't marginalize any group and this is our practice... our country is multi-ethnic and there is religious diversity... this is a unique practice and an ideal government," he said.

Citing an example, he said if the government did not give priority to the views of all the groups, then (MIC president) Datuk Seri S.Samy Vellu would always lose (in expressing his opinion) but the government always considered the views of all races. (Bernama)

***** I'm sure that many would agree with most of the points made by the PM. At the same time it cannot be denied that the present situation is far from ideal and the government should actively look into the grouses of those who feel that they have been marginalized. A good and caring government must not only keep saying that it is so, but must show that it really cares for all its citizens. To assure the people that no one will be marginalized is a good thing but to ensure that not a single group is left far behind is the tricky part. This is where in reality the government's rhetoric and actions part ways.

More importantly when such instances of perceived discrimination are brought to the attention of the authorities they should welcome the feedback, no matter how unpleasant, instead of clobbering the messengers and attempting to muzzle them permanently.
Image - Source

Pak Lah takes middle path on Islamic state issue: Malaysia Not A Secular Or Theocratic State, Says Abdullah.