BATU PAHAT, 12 Feb 2009: The political fanaticism which has boiled into street demonstrations and a plan to sue a ruler is a worrying trend, said Unity, Culture, Arts and Heritage Minister Datuk Mohd Shafie Apdal.
He said taking a legal action against Sultan Azlan Shah for swearing-in new Perak menteri besar was unwarranted as the monarch was a revered institution among the Malays.
“Although the Sultan can be charged in his personal capacity there are other factors which should be considered. The Sultan should not be blamed for the political development which has worked in Barisan Nasional (BN) favour,” he said.
He was speaking to reporters after opening the Unity and Development Towards Vision 2020 Forum organised by Universiti Tun Hussein Onn here today.
Shafie, who is also Umno supreme council member, said political fanaticism should be curtailed with all quarters displaying their maturity as unwarranted actions would not resolve any problems.
“All parties should exercise restraints by upholding the democratic system and should respect the culture of various races,” he said, adding that party leaders should not overstep their boundaries. — Bernama
felix says
It is easy to say because the BN is on the winning end. I am afraid to image what would happen if they are on the losing end.
anak malaysia says
Shafie, when you said that sultan can be charged in his personal capacity means that you agreed with Karpal Singh! Did Karpal really go to court? He did not, he was only stating his right to do so. it is those who have hatred and bias who will continue to harbour the thought!