Unity minister hopes Saravanan-Zamri debate will be called off

Summary

• Unity minister calls on M Saravanan and Zamri Vinoth to cancel their March 23 debate.

• Aaron Ago Dagang warns it could exacerbate tension, strain ties within our multireligious society.

• He urges them to use his ministry’s dialogue platform instead and focus on fostering unity.

National Unity Minister Aaron Ago Dagang expressed hope that the planned debate between MIC deputy president M Saravanan and controversial Muslim preacher Zamri Vinoth would be cancelled.

He warned that such debates could create tension and strain relationships in Malaysia’s multireligious society.

“Discussions or debates related to religion should not proceed if their sole purpose is to highlight differences while neglecting efforts to build unity," Aaron said in a statement today.

Previously, Malaysiakini reported that Saravanan had fixed the debate for March 23 in Kuala Lumpur after Zamri (above, left) likened kavadi bearers during Thaipusam to individuals who are possessed or intoxicated.

Saravanan, who is currently abroad, could not be reached for comment. He is expected to address the matter further at a press conference in Kuala Lumpur tomorrow.

Aaron said discussions about religion should be conducted with full respect and awareness of the diversity within our society.

“Although we have various religions and beliefs, it is more important to focus on common ground and universal values that can unite us as Malaysians,” he added.

Use Harmony Dialogue platform instead

Aaron pointed to the “Harmoni Madani” Initiative under his ministry, which organises the “Harmony Dialogue” series with the theme "Understand, Respect & Accept" to discuss and share best religious practices, as well as common values that can strengthen relationships among religious followers in the country.

“Therefore, it is best for all parties to utilise the ministry-led Harmony Dialogue platform as a medium to enhance understanding and appreciate the diversity within our society by emphasising commonalities,” he added.

The minister also reminded all parties to continue striving to maintain national stability by preserving harmony among races and religions.

“Everyone - whether representatives, politicians, religious leaders, communities, or individuals - must play their respective roles in fostering unity and ensuring the nation's well-being,” he added.

Yesterday, PKR central leadership council member Amidi Abdul Manan reminded Saravanan and Vinoth that their end goal for the debate should be to contribute towards fostering greater interfaith harmony, rather than stoke simmering tensions.

Zamri is being investigated by the police and MCMC over his Facebook post which courted severe backlash.

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