Anwar: Inciting hatred through freedom of speech a shameful act

KUALA LUMPUR: The act of hiding behind freedom of speech when inciting hatred is shameful, says Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

He said using freedom of speech as a "shield" exposes it to misuse that could escalate into hatred and cruelty.

"Just as we reject totalitarianism, extreme notions of freedom can also harm society and lead to further violations of others' right to live and feel safe," he said in a statement today.

In the same statement, the premier also praised the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) for passing a resolution against religious hatred that constitutes incitement to discrimination, enmity or violence, in response to the burning of the Quran outside the Stockholm Central Mosque during the Hari Raya Aidiladha celebration last month.

However, Anwar said it was unfortunate that for every progressive step taken against Islamophobia, "the flames of hatred are burning more and more among those who hide their heinous deeds behind the freedom of speech, as demonstrated by the dissenting member states".

"Islamophobia is a poison that threatens Western countries, just as it threatens Muslims everywhere in the countries where they live.

It is (a form of) defiance, with hatred and xenophobia going against the goals of our common human society.

"We must not solve this issue by burning each other's books, but by reading them and engaging in dialogue sessions," he said.

While UNHRC has bravely stood up to this hatred, he hoped that those against it would reflect on their choices.

"(And) do what is within their power to ensure that their actions and words do not lead to injustice to human rights.

"I also congratulate the Swedish government for taking a firm stand against Islamophobia and look forward to seeing the Swedish police repeat this stance as they carry out their investigations."

He said the harm and pain caused by certain quarters can only be balanced by other members of society who stand firm together and choose to respect others by caring and showing mercy.