LETTER | Bombing attempt against Siti Kasim must be condemned

LETTER | News of an improvised explosive device (IED) found attached to the rear suspension of lawyer, activist and vocal critic Siti Kasim’s car has gripped law-abiding citizens’ attention.

Yes, we all who champion democracy, moderate civil rights, and liberties, and who abhor racism, religious bigotry, and extremism are united in demanding that this should never happen in our peaceful and tolerant nation, again.

This incident must be investigated to the dot to ensure it is the first and last of such an abominable threat to citizens and leaders. 

Siti (above) is known for her fearless criticisms of racists, religious extremists, and hypocrisy.

She is not a business tycoon to believe that it could be a case of rivalry. 

She is not a pronounced politician to think that opponents may want to finish off her political career.

God forbid, what if she had not sent in her vehicle for servicing before leaving the capital city for a legal assignment on the east coast? 

Social media is choking with shock and anger over this incident that is only common in nations where law and order have become political, religious and business weapons used to silence champions of moderation, rights, liberties, and justice.

Let not this heinous, criminal extremism become a common trend in our beloved land. It never must, on all accounts and at any time, in our journey to build a model nation. 

Hopefully, voices from religious quarters, political turfs, and professional fraternities will ring out loud along with law-abiding, patriotic Malaysians to ensure that this shocking incident will be the last in our nation.

We need zero tolerance for such cowardly acts. I believe the police force is capable of nailing the individuals or groups behind this crime, and we must ensure that the law bites harder than known.

Otherwise, tomorrow it could be judges, politicians, civil society champions, or even religious leaders who will be targeted to put fear in the hearts of citizens.

Every citizen must step forward to condemn this bombing attempt. 

Our national reputation - a moderate, tolerant, peaceful country of rulers and citizens is under attack if this case is not dealt with speedily and severely. 

It is not just about Siti. It is about all of us good citizens too.

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