The public should not link the grisly murder of cosmetics millionaire Sosilawati Lawiya to racism, says deputy International Trade and Industry Minister Mukhriz Mahathir.

NONE "I know there might be certain irresponsible quarters who are out to cause upheaval by linking any issue to racism, including the alleged murder of Sosilawati Lawiya.

"It is important for us to ensure that we do not always relate any matter to racism. This is what we want to avoid," he told reporters at an Aidilfitri open house hosted by his family at the Craft Complex, Jalan Conlay in Kuala Lumpur today.

The remains of Sosilawati, 47, and three others - lawyer Ahmad Kamil Abdul Karim, 32, CIMB Bank officer Noorhisham Mohammad, 38, and driver Kamarudin Shansudin, 44, - were found in Ladang Gadong, Tanjung Sepat, Kuala Langat on Sunday.

mukhriz mahathir gaza fund 010208 serious Some suspects are believed to be Indian Malaysians, including two lawyers.

    

Mukhriz said crime can happen anywhere and committed by anyone and if viewed from the racism point of view, it would likely lead to tension.

"The incident should not be seen from racism perspective as certain quarters will certainly inflame the situation that may trigger racial conflict," he said.

Mukhriz's parents, former prime minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad and Dr Siti Hasmah Mohd Ali were present at the event.

- Bernama