M'SIANS REMINDED TO VALUE FREEDOM AND NOT TO BE TOO EMOTIONAL

KAJANG (Malaysia), Sept 11 (Bernama) -- Malaysians are reminded not to be
too emotional to the extent of losing their sense of reasoning by committing
crimes which could lead them to prison.

Instead, they must be rational and appreciate the freedom they are enjoying
today, said Home Minister Hishammuddin Hussein.

He made the call following the failure of some people to control their
emotions to the extent of playing up racial and religious issues that could
destabilise the country.

"When we just follow our hearts in doing something without thinking of the
consequences, we will be led straight to prison and thus, lose all the freedom
we are enjoying today."

The minister said this after recording the "takbir" (recital of
"Allahuakhbar") to herald Eid Al-fitr, (a celebration to mark the end of
Ramadan) with Kajang Prison personnel and inmates, here Friday.

He also expressed his sadness over the fate of the inmates who could no
longer celebrate the upcoming festive celebration with their families and hoped
that what happened to the inmates would be a lesson for all.

"I'm grateful for still having my freedom and not being among the unlucky
ones. Maybe some of them have repented, but that is the price we have to pay
when we follow our hearts too much," he said.

Apart from recording the "takbir", Hishammuddin also handed over zakat
fitrah (Aidilfitri tithes) worth RM1,099 (US$313.87) received from the inmates
to the state of Selangor Zakat Board.
-- BERNAMA