Anwar does not understand the Malays, blasts Hamzah over "arrogant" remark

KUALA LUMPUR - Opposition leader Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin has criticized Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for his lack of understanding of the Malay psyche when the latter urged them not to be "arrogant."

Deeming it to be a caustic remark, Hamzah, in a Fireside Chat interview with Sinar Daily, believed that such soundbite will only spark more tensions and problems.

This was so as the Larut MP was of the opinion that the Malay race and Islam have always been -- in Malaysian context -- interconnected.

"He does not understand the Malay psyche properly for him to say that the Malays are arrogant, because the Malays will only get angry once you touch on the issue of religion which is Islam.

"Ever since the country earned its indipendence until today, we did the Malay-led government ever sent any non-Malay citizens back [to their ancestral country of origin]?

"Also, those who are not Muslims should not come out with any statements about Islam," said Hamzah.

Anwar had on April 4, reminded the Malays to not be "arrogant and comfortable" and that the majority race should celebrate and be respectful of everyone in the country.

He said the majority race should take lessons from Cambodia's administration that celebrates Muslims in the country.

The reminder, came against the backdrop of his administration being accused of racial favouritism by critics.