KAPIT: Politicians who stoke racial and religious sentiments are a liability and do no good for the country.
A concerned Datuk Ho Su Mong, who is Malaysia-Singapore Federated Coffee Shop and Restaurant Owners Association president, says such politicians will breed mistrust and cause disunity among the nation’s multi-racial citizens.
“Since the general election 2018, a worrisome trend has surfaced in the country.
“Instead of focusing on economic growth, politicians and leaders have chosen to engage in divisive politics, raising racial and religious sentiments.
“This is extremely unhealthy,” said Ho at Kapit Coffee Shop and Restaurant Owners Association’s 43th anniversary celebration cum Chinese New Year dinner here.
“The economy has slowed down. The cost of essential goods and living is very high. The people are struggling under the current situation.
“I urged the government of the day and the Opposition to do less politicking but instead work towards improving the economy of the country,” he said.
He also urged the government to be flexible when implementing policies related to health — premise cleanliness, washroom and drain, food handling, smoking ban at eateries, among others.
“The Ministry of Health imposing a no smoking ban at all eateries is commendable but be flexible and fair to everybody.
“While looking after the rights of non-smokers, also take into account that of smokers, by creating a smoking zone,” he added.
Meanwhile, Kapit Coffee Shop and Restaurant Owners Association (CSROA) chairman Ma Tian Ho said after 43 years of existence, Kapit CSROA continued to remain relevant.
“We play our role by giving back to society through welfare activities such as blood donation campaigns, looking after the welfare of members.
“We focus on children’s education through cash incentives to high achievers. Likewise, we have projects like handing out school bags and stationery to needy students and purchasing necessary equipment like printers, computers for schools,” he explained.
Also in attendance were Cochran Alwi Amos, who represented Bukit Goram assemblyman Jefferson Jamit Unyat; former Temenggong Sng Chee Eng, association adviser Dato Yong Hua Sying, who represented Julau MP Larry Sng, F&N Beverages Marketing Sdn Bhd trade relations manager Cheh Tut Wing, Bukit Goram DAP chairman Larry Asap and some 200 guests and members.
