KUALA LUMPUR: A DAP lawmaker today suggested that the Tourism and Culture Minister Nazri Aziz shared his thoughts on Bersih 5 rally and related issues with Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and Inspector General of Police Khalid Abu Bakar.
“It is a smart statement. Other ministers should learn from the tourism minister. Have an open mind instead of blocking roads and arresting people.
“Share your thoughts with IGP and home minister so that they don’t make statements that embarrass Malaysia,” said Teresa Kok.
She said this while debating the Budget 2017 allocation for Tourism and Culture Ministry at committee stage today.
Yesterday Nazri was reported to have said that Bersih 5 rally promoted Malaysia.
“It is a good advertisement for Malaysia. We ensured that we allow for a peaceful rally even if it is against the law,” the tourism and culture minister told a news portal.
“The concept of peaceful assembly only allows [organisers] to demonstrate in certain places, which the organisers failed to understand. We are very tolerant and it is a good boost for the economy as democracy here is healthy,” Nazri added.
Kok also suggested that the ministry conducts gender sensitisation programme for ministers and deputy ministers.
“Minister should ensure other ministers don’t make sexist statements or send them for gender sensitisation program.
“We should do that so that people don’t doubt whether they are in parliament or the zoo.”
Kok also criticised the government for rescinding its words by detaining Bersih 2.0 chairwoman Maria Chin Abdullah under Security Offences ( Special Measures) Act 2012.
On another note she questioned why the ministry was targetting the Bangladeshis for the ‘Make Malaysia My Second Home’ programme, and suggested that the parliament too be promoted as a tourism destination as practiced in Australia and United Kingdom.