KUALA LUMPUR – All parties have to stop “adding more fuel to an ongoing fire” and not play up 3R (religion, race, and royalty) issues, warned Datuk Seri Mohd Shuhaily Mohd Zain.
“(When it comes to 3R), we are quite concerned that it might not be a racial issue. Instead, an issue that arose between two different races, which can catalyse the (bigger) issue,” said the Bukit Aman criminal investigation department director.
“We do not want (to see) another incident of Kg Medan or another racial incident in this country. That would only make things worse for the country and its image.
“All parties should stand down. Legal action has been taken against those who play up these issues.
“These individuals have been charged, and let the justice system run its course.
“Let them go through the justice system. It will show the maturity of our people and how we deal with such sensitive issues,” he said during a press conference at Bukit Aman police headquarters, here, today.
“As I’ve said before, don’t take matters into your hands as it will only harm yourself.
“Remember, all crimes will be prosecuted later on and if convicted, the record will remain in one’s life. It willl affect (everything), such as your life or chances to land a job.
“(So) please, be more patient…it might look like a simple slapstick response but be patient. We will solve a lot more problems if we are patient,” he said.
“And for those who try to raise any old issues, in the context of 3R; do you think this is the time?
“(So), don’t try to add fuel when there’s already a fire. It will burn down the house.”
He also said the police have been consistent in opening investigation papers whenever they received reports on 3R issues.
“We will be opening an investigation paper (IP), even if the report is lodged against whoever is in the government or opposition. We are very consistent about opening IPs.
“(And) also, again, I wanted to take this opportunity to advise everyone to stand down.
“Don’t escalate (the matter regarding 3R) again. Enough is enough.”
While Shuhaily did not mention any specific cases, the warning comes in the wake of a Molotov cocktail attack on a KK Mart store in Bidor, Perak. In the incident, the suspect allegedly hurled an incendiary device into the premises, causing damage to the outlet.
The boycott campaign against KK Mart was sparked by outrage within the Muslim community over the sale of socks bearing the word “Allah”. This also resulted in legal actions against the store’s management.
KK Supermart & Superstore Sdn Bhd founder Datuk Seri Chai Kee Kan and his wife, Datin Seri Loh Siew Mui, were recently charged in court for intentionally hurting religious sentiments.
Meanwhile, their supplier, Xin Jian Chang Sdn Bhd, faces a civil suit.
In a separate incident, police arrested an elderly man for allegedly making a death threat against Umno Youth chief Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh.
Melaka Tengah police chief Christopher Patit confirmed the arrest, saying the suspect was apprehended after a concerned individual who overheard the threatening remarks made a report. – March 27, 2024