Najib Abdul Razak today reminded relevant groups not to resort to drastic measures to champion the interests of any race in the country.

The prime minister said they should take into consideration the national scenario which comprises people of various races and religions.

"We cannot restrict any group but we do not want quarrels which can trigger racial sentiments to prevail in our country.

"We must check this. It is for this reason that I have initiated the 1Malaysia concept to serve as our guide," he said.

Najib spoke to reporters after attending the Treasury's monthly assembly and presentation of excellent service awards and the 5S renewed certification in Putrajaya.

Najib was asked to comment on a suggestion by MCA vice-president Donald Lim to set up a Chinese Perkasa to confront the Malay right-wing organisation Pertubuhan Pribumi Perkasa Malaysia (Perkasa), helmed by Pasir Mas MP Ibrahim Ali.

Asked about a proposal for the prosecution of corruption cases to be left to the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), he said the matter was under study and needed an amendment to the Federal Constitution.

"There is an obstacle because, right now, we (BN) do not have a two-third majority in Parliament," he said.

When suggested that the opposition parties were agreeable to the prosecution being handled by the MACC, Najib said: "We will look into it."

The parliamentary select cCommittee on corruption has expressed the opinion that prosecution of corruption cases should come under the MACC chief commissioner and not the attorney-general.

- Bernama