CULPRITS WILL BE BROUGHT TO JUSTICE, SAYS MALAYSIAN PM

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 9 (Bernama) -- Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak
said those responsible for the arson attacks at churches which shocked
the nation will be brought to justice.

"This divisive event, and others like it, do not represent Malaysia or
Islam. They don't represent our families, our communities, or the effort we have
all made towards strengthening 1Malaysia," he said on his 1Malaysia website
Friday evening.

Condemning the incidents yet again, the Prime Minister said incidents of
violence motivated by religious, social or political differences were a threat
to the country's harmony and stability.

"An investigation into this matter has already been launched, and those
responsible will be brought to justice," he added.

Malaysians, he said, were shocked by the actions.


He said he had also ordered the police to tighten security around religious
places including churches to ensure that there would be no further instances of
violence.

"We cannot allow this to happen again to any place of worship," he said.

Najib said Malaysia prided itself on respecting all religions and pursuing
peaceful, legal channels to resolve differences.

"We encourage our citizens to responsibly voice their opinions, but violence
is never an acceptable method of expression," he said.

The prime minister said Malaysia was a multi-racial and multi-religious
country with a history of peaceful coexistence between Muslims, Christians,
Buddhists, Hindus and others.

"Many Malaysians practice Christianity, and have done so freely. We will not
tolerate activities that endanger or threaten our fellow citizens," he added.

-- BERNAMA