Politicians warned over race-related remarks that could divide society

Political leaders in Malaysia are urged to exercise greater care when discussing issues of race and origin, as such statements risk offending citizens and undermining the nation's social harmony. PKR Vice President Chang Lih Kang specifically called out PAS Election Director Muhammad Sanusi Md. Nor for remarks made on July 24, which suggested that Malaysians of Chinese and Indian descent have separate countries of origin.

Chang, who also serves as the Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, emphasized that while politicians might be accustomed to criticism, these comments could deeply affect ordinary citizens who have contributed to Malaysia for generations. "For me, it might be okay because I am a politician, but for ordinary people, such statements can be hurtful," he stated.

He highlighted that many Malaysian citizens of Chinese and Indian descent were born, raised, and educated in the country, and have no other home. "Suddenly saying that Chinese people have China, Indian people have India. I don't think that's appropriate," Chang said, adding that sensitivities must be maintained, even during political campaigns.

Chang, himself of Chinese descent, asserted his Malaysian identity, stating, "I myself am of Chinese descent, but I was born here, raised here, and educated here. If you tell me to go back to China, I don't even know what to do because there's no one there." He reiterated that such remarks are unsuitable for Malaysia, regardless of the election season.