Media should not highlight extreme statements, says Gerakan Youth deputy

KUALA LUMPUR: Media should play its role to raise greater public awareness on moderation among Malaysians but not highlight extreme statements from minority groups, including Ikatan Muslimin Malaysia (Isma) or Perkasa, said the Gerakan Youth deputy chief Andy Yong.
Speaking at a press conference, other than the leaders of Isma and Perkasa, Yong said even some ministers had given extreme statements and it had destroyed the peaceful coexistence among Malaysians in the country.
"Minority groups are the ones making extreme statements. I urge the media to stop highlighting their statements in order to protect the harmony among Malaysians.
"Hence, we should start promoting moderation in the country now," he said after chairing a 30 minute meeting with 31 people, who have no political background, at the Parti Gerakan Rakyat Malaysian (PGRM) headquarters here today.
The meeting was organised by Yong to provide a platform for grassroots to have an opportunity to voice their views.
The 31 people included social activists, businessmen, entrepreneurs and students.
At the same time, Yong said he hoped that the reports would help on the draft of the National Harmony Bill, which is to replace the Sedition Act.