00:00A government MP has urged all political parties, including UMNO, to handle religious and sensitive
00:08issues through engagement and dialogue, rather than resorting to fear tactics or intimidation.
00:14Bukit Bindera MP Shirlina Abdul Rashid of DAP called for constructive responses to
00:20foster understanding instead of discord and cautioned against divisive rhetoric.
00:25She said religious matters should not be exploited for political gain,
00:29adding that Malaysians should not be drawn into negative narratives that pit them against each
00:34other. Shirlina's comments came in response to a warning by UMNO's Ulama Council that non-Muslim
00:41ministers should be more careful when commenting on issues related to Islam and Muslims.
00:47The council cited two issues, the sale of pre-packed chicken ham and cheese sandwiches
00:52with allegedly misused halal logos and the sale of alcohol in predominantly Muslim areas in Ipoh.
00:59Although Housing and Local Government Minister Ngah Khormeng took a stand on both controversies,
01:05the council did not mention him in their statement.
01:08Meanwhile, Bukit Bintang MP Fong Kui Lun of DAP said Malaysia belonged to its citizens of all
01:15races and religions, adding that everyone must be committed to upholding national unity
01:20and respectful dialogue.
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