HOME MINISTER:MANY LESSONS FROM VIOLENT LONDON RIOTS

KAJANG (Bernama) - There are many lessons to be learned
from the riots in London and several other cities in England, said Home Minister
Hishammuddin Tun Hussein.

"I am thankful that what happened in the UK did not happen here, which is
something we cannot take for granted," he said after breaking fast at the Kajang
Prison Complex mosque Thursday.

He said the riots also emphasised Malaysia's consistency and firmness in
handling issues without compromising the peace, stability and harmony of the
country.

He explained that in upholding justice and stability other considerations
such as race, religion and politics must stay out of the equation.

Malaysians can now compare and evaluate for themselves how the police here
handled the July 9 illegal rally, he said.

Hishammuddin said his ministry has been closely monitoring the situation
since the Tottenham riots last Saturday and is confident the UK government can
handle it.

On Monday, 20-year-old Ashraf, a first-year accounting student at
Kaplan College sponsored by Mara, lost several teeth and broke his jaw
when he was attacked and mugged by rioters while cycling home with a friend for
the breaking of fast.

Meanwhile, on a separate subject, Hishammuddin said the media should be more
responsible and sensitive in publishing news without offending people's
feelings.

He said The Star's recent article on Ramadan fare with a picture of a pork
dish was unacceptable, especially so during the holy month.