KUALA LUMPUR – PAS has called for calm amid racial and religious tensions and urged for all efforts to be taken to diffuse hostilities arising from the arson at the residence of DAP’s Datuk Ngeh Koo Ham and his recent statements on shariah law.
The opposition party said differences in views and beliefs do not justify actions that threaten lives and the safety of property.
“So, all efforts have to be taken promptly and fairly to diffuse any tensions that may arise from those differences.
“All parties also need to be more sensitive and careful in voicing any opinions, positions or suggestions that may contribute to an atmosphere of disharmony, which could become a spark leading to a bigger fire,” said PAS secretary-general Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan in a statement.
He added that he hopes Ngeh and family can remain calm as the Beruas MP will always have the sympathy and support of peace-loving Malaysians, as well as the protection of the law.
Meanwhile, Perak PAS chief Razman Zakaria has slammed Ngeh’s response to the attack, saying it was disappointing that opposition bloc Perikatan Nasional (PN) was implicated.
“Making accusations to gain political sentiments is reckless and extreme. Ngeh’s accusation seems to perpetuate (Perak DAP chief) Nga Kor Ming’s refrain that PAS is the Taliban.
“Ngeh is also seen trying to portray PN and Islam in a bad light as he was seen interfering in Islamic affairs recently.
“He should stop making accusations that could fan religious sentiments,” said Razman in a separate statement.
In yesterday’s press conference, Ngeh confirmed that his Mercedes-Benz E300 was engulfed in flames at approximately 2.15am, prompting him to alert police and the Fire and Rescue Department.
He claimed that the arson attack was triggered by his controversial statement regarding the appointment of a non-Muslim constitutional law expert and a representative from the Malaysian Bar to the special committee on shariah laws.
His statement on December 28 drew flak from Malay leaders in both the government and opposition blocs, who accused him of provocation and undermining confidence in the Malay rulers.
In a Facebook post, DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke confirmed the damage to Ngeh’s property caused by the arson attack. Authorities discovered a Molotov cocktail near the house at around 3am yesterday.
Police are investigating the case and have launched a manhunt for the suspect. – January 11, 2024