Malaysia's Ruling Party Tells Ethnic Minorities not to Fear Loss of Rights

Author: Staff Writer

Source: The International Herald Tribune/The Associated Press

http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2007/11/06/asia/AS-POL-Malaysia-Ruling-Party.php

Malaysia's ruling party vowed Tuesday to responsibly resolve racial and religious spats, and urged ethnic minorities not to be paranoid about losing their rights.

The United Malays National Organization, which spearheads the multiethnic National Front ruling coalition, is holding its annual congress this week amid tensions over the recent demolition of a Hindu temple by authorities — an incident that reignited concerns among the Chinese and Indian minorities about the protection of their welfare.

For the third consecutive year at the congress, UMNO Youth Chief Hishammuddin Hussein unsheathed a Malay traditional dagger and kissed it, defying criticism by minorities that the practice denotes aggression.

Hishammuddin defended his action, insisting the dagger is "not merely a symbol of power but also a symbol of unity."

"Don't create imaginary enemies and don't be terrified of shadows," Hishammuddin said in a speech.