PEACE INDEX: GOVT SHOULD REMAIN VIGILANT, SAY OPPOSITION LEADERS

KUALA LUMPUR, July 26 (Bernama) -- Opposition leaders have called on the government to remain vigilant despite Malaysia achieving the rank as the most peaceful country in Southeast Asia, cautioning that threats can still occur in a
peaceful country.

Contacted by Bernama for his views on the recent rank which placed Malaysia the most peaceful country in the region and 16th in the world, Democratic Action Party (DAP) deputy chairman Dr Tan Seng Giaw said there should be more openness to foster a vibrant democracy in the country.

The Home Ministry, he said, should be more alert in handling factors such as religous and race issues.

"We must remember Norway is ranked among the most peaceful country in the world but the attacks on Friday (which killed 93 people) have opened our eyes that peace can come under threats," he told Bernama Monday.

Dr Tan, who is Kepong MP, hoped that Malaysia would be spared of the crisis such as those affecting countries in the Middle East.

Meanwhile, Parti Islam SeMalaysia (Pas) vice-president Salahuddin Ayub said Malaysia will be able to improve on the raking if the government allowed freedom of speech and gatherings to voice opinion.

"I hope that the government can be more open in dealing with these basic demands for our common good," he said.
-- BERNAMA