Controversy shows how fragile we are, says Fazzrudin

KUCHING: Controversy that arose over the Christmas cake greeting issue shows how fragile the state of harmony is in the country.

It is therefore important for the federal government to constantly improve on policies and decisions which affect Malaysians across the board.

In making this point, the Premier’s Chief Political Secretary Fazzrudin Abdul Rahman said Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg was right about criticising the banning of Christmas greetings on cakes.

A bakery chain in the peninsula had banned the festive greetings in adherence to a Jakim directive in 2020.

The Islamic Development Department has since voided the directive, saying business premises which have the halal certification are not prohibited from adding such greetings to their products, including cakes.

Fazzrudin, like the Premier, said the issue does not contribute to the development of the country as well as unity among the multi-racial community in Malaysia.

“This is not related to the law or the source of authority (Jakim) and is inconsequential to the halal certification process which should be respected but the existence of such an issue shows how fragile the existing harmony is and the impact on much of the pluralistic society who feel this issue arising is too much,” he said on Tuesday.

He said this in response to a Facebook post under the name of Ab Jalil Backer questioning Abang Johari’s response to the issue.

Fazzrudin stressed that the federal government and government agencies must constantly improve on formulating policies and making decisions that affect all Malaysians.

“This is because controversial decisions can threaten harmony in the community and invite criticism of the federal government.

“This is not a national or regional issue of a political nature but has become an issue of unity and harmony in the country.

“We do not want a division that has a negative impact on the economic and social development of the country resulting from a careless approach that leaves room for issues such as Christmas greetings on cakes to arise.”

Towards this end he called on the federal government to be more sensitive  and improve its approach so that harmony in the country will continue to be maintained.

“Alhamdulillah, Sarawak under the leadership of the Premier has achieved much success at the national and international level.

“This is proof of the wisdom of the Premier’s leadership and Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) in governing Sarawak not only in economic development but also in social integration.”

Sarawak’s success has also contributed to Malaysia’s success, he added.