Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said Malaysians are part of one family regardless of race, adding that he was willing to lose votes for standing by this belief.
He made the remarks during Pakatan Harapan’s Grand Finale Kekal Harapan rally in Sikamat, Negeri Sembilan, tonight (July 29).
‘Think about how they would feel’
During his speech, Anwar criticised those who tell Malaysian Chinese to “go back” to the country their ancestors migrated from, pointing out that many were born in Malaysia and considered it their home.
He asked the crowd to consider how someone would feel upon hearing such remarks.
Anwar added that he would also oppose anyone who insulted Malays or told them to “return to Sumatra”, describing such remarks against any community as disrespectful.
He also briefly linked his stand to the Islamic principle of respecting every person’s dignity.
‘They are part of my family’
Anwar stressed that Chinese, Indian, Malay and Orang Asli communities were all part of his family.
You can say whatever you like, but they are part of my family,” he said.
He insisted that this was not merely a political statement and said he was prepared to lose votes for defending it.
Anwar added that politicians should not condemn Malays to gain Chinese votes or attack the Chinese community to secure Malay support.
