Pusat KOMAS strongly condemns the planned rally by PAS and Bersatu Youth, targeting Ministers YB Nga Kor Ming and YB Hannah Yeoh. The rally, citing the recent organising of a Christmas event at the Ministry of Housing and Local Government (KPKT) and the allegations of Christian proselytization in YB Hannah Yeoh’s autobiography, reflects an alarming attempt to politicize religious and cultural diversity in Malaysia.
YB Hannah Yeoh’s autobiography, a personal account of her faith, has been publicly available for years and does not constitute proselytization. Similarly, the Christmas celebrations held by the KPKT should be celebrated as an inclusive initiative, instead of used as a tool to propagate threat. These actions threaten national unity and promote intolerance by framing inclusivity and personal faiths as threats to Islam. They should be seen as opportunities to foster goodwill, not as grounds for political contention or fearmongering. Such rhetoric and protests are divisive and undermine Malaysia’s multicultural identity. This distracts from pressing issues that require genuine attention.
PAS have repeatedly demonstrated over the past few days their unwillingness to muster a genuine effort towards upholding the rights and interests of all communities regardless of race or religion, as they previously vowed to do. We urge PAS and its leadership to reflect on their political direction and adopt more inclusive approaches that respect the Malaysia we all share.
Pusat KOMAS reiterates its call for all political parties to be instruments in embracing Malaysia’s rich and diverse culture while respecting every citizen’s right to practice their own faiths and beliefs. We urge all parties to engage in civil discourse and reject actions that divide Malaysia, especially as we assume the ASEAN Chairmanship role in 2025. Our nation’s diversity is integral to our identity, and it is imperative for all leaders to protect this foundation for the betterment of every citizen and a yardstick for every nation in the region.