In a recent report by The Star, the Sepang Umno chief acknowledged that his remarks "could have been interpreted differently and caused misunderstanding, particularly in Malaysia's multi-religious society". He further defended his speech by stating that the story was shared "solely as an analogy to highlight the importance of focus, perseverance and wisdom in achieving a goal and was not intended to insult, belittle or make fun of any individual, belief or religion".

These types of statements show absolute insincerity and a gross lack of public responsibility. It is deeply disingenuous to hide behind the excuse of an "analogy" or a "misunderstanding" when the core of the issue involves a completely made-up quote and references that do not exist in the Christian scripture. Inventing a false, crude punchline and falsely presenting it as a verse from a holy book—specifically Psalm 129—crosses the line from a careless joke into a deliberate distortion of sacred text.

Furthermore, this reckless behavior directly contradicts the firm stance taken by the party's top leadership on safeguarding national unity. Umno president and Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has previously called for actions that stir public sensitivities to be dealt with firmly, fairly, and wisely to protect the nation's harmony.

The DPM explicitly stressed that while freedom of speech must be respected, it can never be used as a pretext to insult religion or undermine the foundations of Malaysian harmony. Subordinates cannot be allowed to mock other faiths on a political stage while the party president demands strict protection for religious dignity.

As leaders entrusted with the mandate of the people, elected members of Parliament and political figures should know, above anyone else, that religion is a deeply sensitive matter in Malaysia.

It is time to show political maturity. In the larger interest of the nation and out of a shared responsibility to maintain harmonious relations among all Malaysians, an unconditional and unqualified public apology must be issued immediately. True unity cannot be sustained if we allow political ego to override accountability.

Waytha Moorthy Ponnusamy

President

Malaysian Advancement Party

15.9.2026