KUALA LUMPUR: Datuk Seri Dr Shahidan Kassim (BN-Arau) has called on all quarters never to raise the issue of the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (ICERD) until the advent of doomsday.
The opposition lawmaker also urged all who had backed the ICERD’s ratification to “repent”; while reminding those who plan to attend an anti-ICERD rally here, scheduled for Dec 8, to feel a sense of gratitude.
Shahidan said the issue of the ICERD as it pertains to Malaysia should now be laid to rest forever, as it is a sensitive matter in the country; and cautioned all ministers against ever again making inflammatory statements related to the ICERD.
He reminded lawmakers present in the Dewan Rakyat today that their forefathers made sacrifices, including agreeing to a binding agreement with the nation’s former British colonial ruler, in order that they could continue to stay in Malaysia.
“All quarters must repent (on this matter). We do not want to mention (the ICERD) again until Hari Kiamat (doomsday/Judgement Day).
“(However), if one wishes to (attend the anti-ICERD rally), it is not to start a fight, but (to display) gratitude as finally, the people can develop the country together,” Shahidan said during a policy-stage debate on Budget 2019 here.
When asked by Datuk Azizah Mohd Dun (BN-Beaufort) on whether Foreign Minister Datuk Saifuddin Abdullah should make a statement in the Dewan Rakyat, officially affirming that Malaysia will not ratify the ICERD, Shahidan said that he agrees with the suggestion.
On Nov 23, the government issued a statement declaring that Malaysia will not ratify the international convention.
Prior to the announcement, certain groups announced strong opposition to the ICERD’s ratification, with Pas and Umno deciding to jointly-organise an anti-ICERD rally. The opposition parties have decided to go ahead with the gathering.
