The attitude of certain leaders who are willing to play up the issue of race and religion to gain political backing is not good for the country, especially when Malaysia is facing various global challenges, said Sarawak Premier Abang Johari Openg.

He said this was because such desperate action could split the unity of the multi-racial community and distract the country from focusing on using all its resources to implement comprehensive development.

"In conjunction with this year's National Day...