MINISTER WARNS AGAINST FANNING RACIAL AND RELIGIOUS SENTIMENTS

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 24 (Bernama) -- The government would take stern action against any quarters who threaten harmony in the country by raising sensitive racial and religious issues, said Home Minister Hishammuddin Hussein.

"Although from the reports I've received there is no worrying racial tension,
the problem, however, must be nipped in the bud with stern action to ensure
public order and harmony.

"I dislike and will not allow such matters create an uneasy situation in the
country," he said when asked by reporters to comment on a new surau in Taman
Impian Pulai Impian, Temiang, Seremban which was splashed with red paint early
Monday.

Hishammuddin was met while attending a breaking-of-fast function and
handing-over of Raya contributions to single mothers and orphans, here, Monday
night.

Following the paint splashing on the weeks' old surau, he said he had instructed
Inspector-General of Police Musa Hassan and all state police chiefs to act
against individuals or groups who threatened peace and order.

On the controversial "doa" (prayer) during recent Friday sermons at some mosques
in Penang by using Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng's name instead of the Malaysian
King's, he said in matters that touched on religion, all quarters must act
rationally and wisely.
-- BERNAMA