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Racism peaks during election season, says BTN chief
Published:  Apr 20, 2016 11:58 AM
Updated: 4:39 AM

Racism in Malaysia peaks during election season, according to National Civics Bureau (BTN) chief Ibrahim Saad.

Speaking at a forum in Shah Alam, he said racism in the country now is not as bad compared to the 1970s and 1980s.

On the same note, Ibrahim is also confident that racism in Malaysia can be controlled, and even eradicated.

“The problem (of racism) comes when there are elections, when certain quarters want to increase political power by exploiting sensitive issues.

“I think Malaysians have become more mature, following their exposure to the knowledge available online.

“But unfortunately, we are inclined towards taking the negative,” he told the audience.

The forum, titled ‘Sampai Bila Mahu Rasis? (Until when are we to be racist?) was organised by Malay daily Sinar Harian yesterday.

Other panellists were Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia’s ethnic research institute fellow Prof Teo Kok Seong, Institut Pendidikan Guru Kampus Bahasa Melayu lecturer Raja Rajeswari Seetha Raman and Multiracial Reverted Muslim (MRM) founder Firdaus Wong.

Earlier, Teo said racism would always exist because it is human nature to be in groups according to race.

However, the BTN head disagreed with the argument that racism cannot be abolished.

“Seated before us are people of different races, but we can discuss openly (about this issue),” he said in reference to the audience at the forum.

On politicians being responsible in widening the divide between the races, Ibrahim said they cannot be blamed.

“We respect politicians. It is their job to seek influence. But it is ordinary people like us who must be wise in voting and determining which is good, and which is bad.

“Don’t blame the politicians... We must choose the best for our country,” he explained, urging Malaysians to think about the future and coming generations.

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