Racism promoted on social media, by politicians, says Waytha Moorthy
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MALAYSIANS face racism on two fronts – on social media and from politicians, said Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department P. Waytha Moorthy.
“There are some parties that use technology such as social media to promote negative agendas which lead to strain among multiracial citizens. This is not right and it should not be supported,” he said in a speech at an event on national unity in Kuala Lumpur, today.
He said those who raise racist sentiments do not understand that Malaysians have been living in peace and harmony for a long time.
He urged those who encounter such comments on social media to combat them with positive comments.
“We can overcome negativity with a positive attitude. The problem today is that good news rarely make it but bad news go viral easily,” he said.
He said the second challenge comes from politicians who have been playing up racial issues.
He added there are still some politicians today who cannot accept that a new government has taken over the country.
“I can see now that a lot of politicians also play up unhealthy racism issues.
“If we look at developed countries, politicians will lessen their politicking after a general election and they will work together with the people to improve the country.
“However, our country is still politically immature, with politicians unable to accept the fact that our country has gained a new leadership,” he said.
The new government should be given the opportunity, he said, to prove what it can do in five years. – March 16, 2019.