Kuala Lumpur: Malaysia on Wednesday warned it
might use the draconian Internal Security Act against those
sparking religious and racial tensions, in the wake of
instances of attacks on churches and a gurudwara in this
multi-ethnic country.
Malaysian Home Minister Hishamuddin Hussein said his
government would not hesitate to use the draconian law against
the assailants citing national security.
"We will not hesitate to use the law including the ISA
and will act against anybody irrespective of their
background," national news agency Bernama has quoted Hussein
as saying.
Hussein`s remarks come in the wake of attacks by
unidentified assailants on 10 churches here after a high court
ruling last month allowing a Catholic newsletter to use the
word `Allah` while referring to God.
Many in this Muslim majority country have objected the
court decision as they feel the word `Allah` should non be
used by non Muslims while referring to God.
He said his ministry would investigate and identify
those responsible for throwing firebombs at several churches.
Under ISA, a person can be detained without trial for
a long period of time.
In another incident, a gurudwara here was pelted with
stones last evening by vandals.
Malaysia`s 27 million population comprises 60 per cent
Malays who are all Muslims, 25 per cent Chinese and eight per
cent Indians who are mostly Hindus but also include Sikhs,
Christians, Jains.
PTI
