Anwar Urges Vigilance Against Racism and Religious Extremism to Protect National Unity

PUTRAJAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has warned that extremist ideologies rooted in race and religion pose a serious threat to national unity and must be addressed with vigilance.

Speaking at the monthly assembly of the National Unity Ministry, Anwar highlighted the rising prevalence of fascism, racism, and Islamophobia globally, particularly in Western countries, noting that these ideologies are spreading even among educated and professional communities.

“Do not take this lightly… the resurgence of fascist and racist ideologies is strong in Europe and America today. Hatred towards minorities, Islamophobia, and hostility towards other races are spreading even among the intelligent and educated,” he said.

The Prime Minister expressed concern that such extremist views are often propagated without a foundation of knowledge or rational thinking, making them particularly dangerous.

Although confronting these threats is challenging, Anwar stressed that it is necessary to preserve peace, stability, and national cohesion. “Peace and stability are the foundation of national development and economic prosperity. When the country is peaceful, we can focus on development and other priorities,” he said.

He further linked political stability to the country’s ability to build strong economic foundations, attract foreign investment, and equip young people with the skills needed to compete globally.

“Policies must first be strengthened before foreign investors can be attracted, and our youth trained in skills they have not previously mastered. These are issues that require careful planning and action,” he added.