KUALA LUMPUR: Parti Gerakan Malaysia (Gerakan) is disappointed with certain parties which deliberately playing up racial issues surrounding school canteens operating during Ramadan and the recognition of Bah Kut Teh as a national heritage food.
Its Human Rights bureau chief Chai Ko Thing said that Malaysia needs to move forward and leaders must not have shortsighted views that do not respect the unity that they have built all this time.
Chai also said that politicians should not sensationalise issues such as school canteens operating during the fasting month.
"I think this matter is very clear, respect is mutual, it's shallow if we ask non-Muslims not to eat in the canteen," he said
Meanwhile, Gerakan also reminded all parties, whether they are coalition partners or government officials, that unity is a shared responsibility.
"Do not constantly sow seeds of hatred among the people," he said in a statement.
Gerakan's suggestion to political parties from all sides is to prioritise the economic interests and harmony of the country in facing this increasingly challenging world.
"The Federal Constitution guarantees the position and freedom of religion. The National Principles also remind us of loyalty to a Federal State.
"It is unwise for politicians to use trivial and racially charged matters to generate political publicity.
"We are nearing seven decades of Independence. If we still want to play up racial issues, we will lag far behind," he said.
