Violence against a place of worship is a sin of the highest order!

The attacks on the two suraus ( Surau Silaturrahim at Kg Sabak Awor and the Parit Beting Surau ), just like the spate of attacks on the places of worship since January 8, must be condemned by all Malaysians.

I fully agree with the President of Malaysian Consultative Council of Buddhism, Christianity, Hin­dusim, Sikhism and Taoism Rev Dr Thomas Philips who said in a statement today that any violence against a place of worship was a sin of the highest order.

Though such incidents of attacks were minor aberrations ( to borrow the words used by the Prime Minister) they have tarnished Malaysia's international image and could jeopardize the nation's racial harmony and national unity.

Hence, at a time when the extremists are out to destroy harmony and incite hatred , Malaysians must continue to display tolerance and pray for peace.

Most important of all, the police must swiftly bring to justice all the extremists who have committed the despicable and unforgivable acts of violence.

Home Minister Hishamuddin Tun Hussein had a few days ago said the situation was under control and not serious. He should know that Malaysians have taken his assurance of " under control " to mean " no further incident of attack on places of worship".

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