ANWAR WARNS RACISM, RELIGIOUS EXTREMISM COULD DIVIDE NATION

PUTRAJAYA, Feb 9 (Bernama) -- The country must remain vigilant and be protected from any threats posed by extremist ideologies based on race and religion that could lead to division, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said today. 

Citing the growing prevalence of fascism, racism and Islamophobia globally, particularly in Western countries, Anwar said the rise of such ideologies should not be taken lightly as they are also spreading among educated segments of society.

“Do not take this lightly… the resurgence of fascist and racist ideologies is strong in Europe and America today.

“Hatred towards minorities, Islamophobia and hostility towards other races are spreading even among the intelligent and educated,” he said when delivering his address at the monthly assembly of the National Unity Ministry here. 

He said what is more worrying is that such sentiments and extremist views are often propagated without a foundation of knowledge or rational thinking.

Anwar said although confronting such threats is not an easy task, the challenge must be faced to ensure that peace in the country is continuously preserved.

The prime minister stressed that peace and stability are the foundation of national development and economic prosperity, and are crucial in safeguarding the well-being of the people.

“When the country is peaceful and stable, we can focus on national development and other priorities,” he said.

Anwar also said the country’s ability to establish strong economic foundations and policies to attract foreign investment is closely linked to political stability.

“(We must first) correct the policies before we can attract foreign investors, and train our young people to acquire skills in areas they have not previously mastered. All these are matters we must think through carefully,” he said.

-- BERNAMA