Unity Minister Calls for Calm Following Attempted Rally Over Allegedly Illegal Houses of Worship
KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 8 — National Unity Minister Aaron Ago Dagang has urged Malaysians to remain calm and prioritise national harmony following an attempted rally linked to alleged unapproved houses of worship in the capital last night.
He stressed that peace and unity must remain central to Malaysia’s nation-building efforts, especially as a multi-ethnic, multi-religious and multicultural society.
“Our focus is unity and peace. Malaysia must continue to be a country where people live together harmoniously while sharing a common national identity,” he told reporters after officiating a commemoration ceremony for the late Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj at the National Museum today.
Commenting on the gathering that was planned near the Sogo shopping complex, Aaron acknowledged that differing opinions exist within society, but said such differences should be managed responsibly and not expressed in ways that threaten public order.
Despite police instructions to call off the rally due to security concerns, a group identifying itself as Gerakan Anti Rumah Anutan Haram (Garah) reportedly attempted to proceed, resulting in the arrest of 19 individuals.
Police later confirmed that two of those detained were remanded for two days to assist investigations.
Kuala Lumpur police chief Fadil Marsus said the two remanded individuals were controversial preacher Zamri Vinoth and Tamim Dahari Abdul Razak.
Authorities had earlier denied permission for the rally following intelligence assessments that flagged potential risks to security and public order. Nevertheless, police detected around 100 people gathering near the Sogo area at about 8pm.
Aaron reiterated that sensitive issues involving race and religion should not be politicised or exploited, but addressed through lawful channels and constructive engagement.
“Peace and harmony are fundamental to Malaysia’s progress as a sovereign and developing nation. We hope Malaysians understand this and continue to support efforts to preserve stability,” he said.
The attempted rally was reported to be linked to long-standing and sensitive disputes over unauthorised religious sites, particularly Hindu temples located on contested land.
-wilayah.com.my
