Anwar orders security forces to be on alert amid religious rhetoric

Malaysian PM’s call follows spike in ethnic tensions, and comes ahead of Malay nationalist convention

- Zunaira Saieed Malaysia Correspondent

KUALA LUMPUR - Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has ordered security forces to be on the alert against those stirring up racial and religious rhetoric, ahead of a Malay nationalist convention on Sunday to be attended by former premier and opposition leader Mahathir Mohamad.

"Any attempt made by anyone to pit one race against another, or to increase the racial and religious temperature in this country will not be permitted," Datuk Seri Anwar told a press conference on Friday after chairing a Cabinet meeting at his office in Putrajaya.

"I have ordered security forces to be on alert because those who are desperate or feel challenged will use these sentiments, and the poor will be paid to cause chaos," he said, without mentioning names.

The "Malay Proclamation" convention will be held at a hotel in Kuala Lumpur, with speakers including Tun Dr Mahathir expected to raise issues regarding the Malay community.

Mr Anwar's government, led by his multiracial Pakatan Harapan coalition, is opposed in Parliament by a Malay-Muslim alliance, Perikatan Nasional (PN).