Unity Council Needed due to Existing Racial, Religious Tensions, says NGO Leader

Published: Wednesday November 27, 2013 MYT 3:56:00 PM
Updated: Wednesday November 27, 2013 MYT 3:59:16 PM
BY TAN YI LIANG

http://www.thestar.com.my/News/Nation/2013/11/27/Unity-council-needed-NGO.aspx

PETALING JAYA: The National Unity Consultative Council is needed due to current racial and religious tensions in Malaysian society, said Damai Disabled Person Association Malaysia president V.Murugeswaran.

“The current generation is facing a dilemma in identifying themselves as a Malaysian first.

“National unity is an important factor which needs immediate attention,” said Murugeswaran in a press release issued on Tuesday.

Murugeswaran disagreed with the opinion of Dewan Negara Senator and Malaysian Confederation for the Disabled secretary Bathmavati Krishnan, who had said that there was no need for a representative on the council speaking for people with disabilities (OKU) in Malaysia.

On Tuesday, Bathmavati had said there was no need for a OKU representative on the council as almost all non-governmental organisations representing the interests of Malaysia’s OKUs already assisted people regardless of race.

“There are many pressing issues concerning OKUs in this country which need to be addressed.

“A representation on behalf of all disabled – regardless of race – is important and much welcomed,” said Murugeswaran.

On the Council itself, Murugeswaran said the 27-member council should be given a chance to serve the people and ensure better racial integration in Malaysia.