KUCHING: Sarawak Patriot Association (SPA) joins the call for Zakir Naik to be investigated, charged and/or deported from Malaysia.
Zakir Naik, a Mumbai-born Muslim preacher, had made various statements which had caused much controversy and unrest among Malaysians — in particular his statement which suggests the expulsion of the Chinese from Malaysia.
SPA secretary David Hii (pic) said Zakir should be kept in check by the relevant authorities.
“He has made statements which are seditious, knowing that it would cause racial instability and tensions.
“Although we appreciate that the Pakatan Harapan (PH) government practises freedom of speech, which is a constitutional right guaranteed under Article 10 of the Federal Constitution, provided there is no abuse of this freedom to harm others,” Hii said in a statement yesterday.
However, he said Zakir’s statements have crossed the line.
“There is no room for racism in this Malaysia Baru and we (SPA) call for swift action to be taken against him,” he said.
He also saluted the Sarawak government for maintaining the immigration ban on the preacher.
“Credit must be given where it is due. The Sarawak government has shown that Sarawakians’ multi-racial spirit is stronger than ever. “Sarawakians of different races and religions have lived together peacefully and they do not need such irresponsible people and statements to disrupt our way of life here,” he pointed out.
