KUALA TERENGGANU, 12 Sept 2008: Relations between Gerakan and Penang Umno, soured by the alleged racist remarks by Bukit Bendera Umno division chief Datuk Ahmad Ismail, will take time to heal, said Gerakan acting president Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon.
He said the party would need time to reconsider and re-evaluate its relations with Penang Umno as what had happened had hurt the members’ feelings.
"It’s like fighting with your sibling and it will certainly take some time to reconcile…. Your feelings are hurt. That is the same analogy here.
"Reconciliation will depend on what both parties will do," he said when asked about Gerakan and Penang Umno relations after Ahmad’s Umno membership was suspended for three years.
Koh, however, was of the view that the Internal Security Act (ISA) need not be used on Ahmad over this statement that was deemed to be racist and inciting.
Instead, he said, it would be more appropriate to use the Sedition Act against the Umno division head.
"We are also angry and disgusted with his subsequent remarks, but then Gerakan has supported the review and amendments to the ISA and would rather the Sedition Act to be used.
"But out of anger and indignation, some Gerakan leaders have asked that the sternest action be taken against Ahmad," he said.
However, Koh said he would leave it to the police to act against Ahmad, based on their investigations into the matter. – Bernama
