Defending Malays doesn’t mean protecting wrongdoers, says Pejuang

Pejuang deputy president Mior Haidir has clarified that defending Malays does not entail shielding wrongdoers and opposing selective prosecution does not mean disregarding the legal process. In a statement, Mior acknowledged that inquiries into selective prosecution were valid, but this does not imply halting investigations or protecting individuals.

He emphasized that if misconduct is involved, it should be investigated and charges should be filed; conversely, if an individual is innocent, they should be afforded the opportunity to mount a defense. The law must be upheld irrespective of the political power dynamics and the identities of those implicated. Mior cautioned against using political cooperation among Malay parties to safeguard those facing prosecution.

He questioned whether unity is genuinely motivated by a deep understanding of the need to strengthen the race or if it is merely a tactic to evade current difficulties. These remarks followed recent charges brought against several Umno figures in connection with investigations into Tabung Haji and Felda. Additionally, Umno and PAS are seeking to promote Malay unity, rekindling their relationship following the Barisan Nasional and PAS-led Perikatan Nasional alliance in the Negeri Sembilan state election, which resulted in a two-thirds majority in the state assembly.

Mior stressed that Malay unity should not be a temporary measure; instead, it should be grounded in a broader agenda encompassing issues such as the economy, education, asset ownership, integrity, governance, and the future of the Malay community. He advocated for a more mature political discourse that can champion Malay rights without compromising principles, ensure justice irrespective of the parties involved, and combat corruption regardless of the perpetrator.