PETALING JAYA: The home minister has slammed a military-like parade by Terengganu PAS Youth, saying it was not only inappropriate but could create uneasiness among the public.
Saifuddin Nasution Ismail explained that issues revolving around the three “Rs” – race, religion and royalty – had yet to subside after the last general election.
“Which is why we need to be more sensitive to actions that could heat up a situation,” he said in a statement today.
Such actions included military-like displays, he said.
Saifuddin said the video clip of the parade also featured religious music that clearly stressed on war themes.
“This led to questions on whether this parade was meant to be a battlecry,” he said.
He warned the public against actions that could cause chaos and said stern action would be taken against those who threaten the country’s harmony and security.
A parade featuring members from the Islamic party’s youth wing in Setiu, Terengganu, saw the group marching with replicas of swords, spears and shields.
The march was part of a two-day PAS gathering known as Himpunan Pemuda Islam Terengganu (Himpit).
The incident led to religious affairs minister Na’im Mokhtar saying the warlike posturing could give the wrong impression of Islam as well, as it drew brickbats from Pakatan Harapan and MCA.
Terengganu PAS Youth has defended its parade, saying it was similar to cosplay events held annually, and emphasised that it was never intended to incite violence.
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