Azalina: Non-Muslims shouldn’t speak about my religion
She says respecting sensitivities is part and parcel of fostering harmony in a multicultural country.
KUALA LUMPUR: Non-Muslims should keep their comments about Islam to themselves, according to Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Azalina Othman Said.
Speaking at a seminar entitled “Penghayatan Ke Atas Patriotisme”, Azalina said respecting sensitivities was part and parcel of fostering harmony in a multicultural country.
“Non-Muslims shouldn’t speak about my religion. I don’t speak about your religion, you don’t speak about mine.
“This is very important in a multicultural country like Malaysia.”
Azalina cited the case of Vivian Lee, who was sentenced to six months jail yesterday after she was charged under the Sedition Act for posting a photograph with the caption “Selamat Berbuka Puasa (with Bak Kut Teh… fragrant, delicious and appetising)” on Facebook.
She said that youths nowadays need to be careful about what they say on social media as some of the comments they make may be considered insensitive.
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“The government does not prevent youths from voicing their opinions and making criticisms, but these must be done in a manner that is consistent with the country’s culture and through the proper channels.”