Zakir Naik's alleged defamation a civil case

LETTER | Dr Zakir Naik’s allegation of defamation against five people is a civil case and it is not appropriate for the police to investigate a case of a civil nature. It also sends a wrong message to the country at a time when we need to stand united and not allow ethnoreligious politicking rip us apart.

Zakir Naik had accused five persons of defaming him. They are Human Resources Minister M Kulasegeran, Penang Deputy Chief Minnister ll P Ramasamay, Klang MP Charles Santiago, Bagan Dalam assemblyperson M Satees and former ambassador Dennis Ignatius. 

It is not government business to get involved in a civil case concerning private affairs of individuals. Our police force is professional and must have gotten unwise instructions with political motivation from the Ministry of Home Affairs.

The investigation into the five persons seems to be aimed at appeasing the rural masses that Zakir Naik has strong support. If it is for political expediency, this notion of trying to win votes from the rural masses is unlikely to bear fruit. 

The Home Minister’s party, Bersatu, will gain little or no votes from this police investigation. In fact, a wrong message is being sent to those who have been capitalising on ethno-religious issues with intent to destabilise the Pakatan Harapan government. It emboldens them further.

Too much time has been wasted on this race and religious politicking and must be put to a stop. Our nation-building efforts and reform programmes have gotten distracted. 

Whereas, we should be working towards harnessing our collective strength, fostering better understanding, respect, trust, and promoting unity. The focus should now be on economic issues.

The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.