The move by DAP adviser Lim Kit Siang to withdraw from the debate with former prime minister Najib Abdul Razak is seen to be appropriate in avoiding any conflict, especially concerning racial and religious sentiments.

Perak DAP chairperson Nga Kor Ming said the decision made by Lim could also prevent the Iskandar Puteri MP from being trapped by Najib.

"The purpose of a debate is an effort to find a way for cheap publicity and we feel we should not waste time to entertain him, who is now facing numerous allegations in court regarding the abuse of public funds,” he said at a press conference in Taiping today.

Nga, who is also Teluk Intan MP, was commenting on Najib, who last Tuesday accepted Lim's challenge to a debate and suggested that it be held after the Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebration and that there should be a live coverage.

According to Nga, the debate would also not benefit the people and thus, Lim should focus his thoughts on bringing reforms to the national institutions and system.

However, Nga, who is also the Dewan Rakyat deputy speaker, said if Najib insisted on wanting to debate, Parliament was the best place for the elected representative from Pekan to do so.

- Bernama