Home Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi today said that the protests by Umno Youth directed at DAP and its assemblyperson is the "price they have to pay" for uttering an "inappropriate remark."

Speaking at a press conference at Kampung Selabak, Teluk Intan today, Ahmad Zahid said that the protests were a "manifestation of anger" from the Umno Youth members after DAP's Seri Delima assemblyperson RSN Rayer called some Umno members "celaka" in the Penang state assembly.

"We are a democracy. We can have differing opinions, but not issue disgusting statements," he said.

Rayeer made the remark when condemning Kepala Batas MP Reezal Merican Naina Merican and two other Umno leaders who joined a rally at Sunway Carnival Mall, Seberang Jaya, in January where DAP was accused of instigating the May 13, 1969 violence.

Assembly immunity

However, Ahmad Zahid said that he "did not think" DAP themselves agreed with Rayer's remark.

"I don't think they agreed with his remark. But they do control (members)," he said.

The Umno vice-president blamed Rayer ( right ) for using "House immunity" in the Penang state assembly to make such remarks.

"He is not brave to repeat it outside even though he has been challenged," he said.

"How do you expect others to respect you if you don't respect anyone? Any action must be rational," he added.