Tiong: Beware of parties using religion for personal agendas

BINTULU: The people have been warned against extremist politics that exploit religion for personal interests.
 
According to the Progressive Democratic Party (PDP) president Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing, there is a Peninsular-based political party that often uses religion and race cards to gain favours.
 
He said this form of propaganda is extremely dangerous and has negative consequences in a multicultural society like Malaysia.
 
“Politics is no longer what it was before; things are getting tougher day by day.
 
“Unfortunately, extremist politics that exploit religion and an increasing trend of racial politics are some of the challenges that we have to face,” he said.
 
He said this when speaking at the PDP triennial general assembly (TGA) 2023 at the Dinner World Restaurant here today (June 11).
 
At the same time, Tiong, who is also the Bintulu Member of Parliament and federal Minister of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, called on his party members and the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) as a whole to address and improve on any existing weaknesses.
 
“If we look at the political scenarios around the world, even the largest political powers can collapse unexpectedly.
 
“What happened in the past should be taken as lessons and reflections,” he said.
 
He also said it is important to make sure the voices of the people are heard and taken into consideration, as their strong support is imperative.
 
“It is a shared dream of Sarawakians to see our beloved state have a bright future.
 
“As such, we hope that the state government will always safeguard and prioritise the interests and welfare of the state as well as its people,” he said.
 
Tiong also assured that the PDP will continue to support the leadership of Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
 
“We stand firmly behind GPS in driving Sarawak to even greater heights,” he added.