We cannot let some politicians hold back a state to suit their narrow views, writes JD Lovrenciear.
The Trengganu state government’s announcement last month that it has come up with guidelines for entertainment events to prevent male and female members from mixing freely is worrying. Such decisions cannot be left to the whims and fancies of so-called religious politicians.
At a time when many around the world are embracing a more profound maturity, here we go in Trengganu, where rules might soon bar women from singing to a male audience. And from Thursday night until mid-day Friday, performances are to be prohibited.
If the federal government allows such political parties to place restrictions on citizens within the states where these parties have a majority, then we would gradually see a more polarised nation.
In the quest for a new Malaysia where all citizens would be subject to the rule of law and where many are moving forward along with the tide of global maturity, we cannot let some politicians hold back a state to suit their narrow views. Even Saudi Arabia is moving forward with the times. So why does Pas want to turn the clock back?
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In this age of the internet and artificial intelligence, would Pas also want to segregate or restrict audiences watching entertainment shows online, especially over YouTube, which many turn to for entertainment?
AGENDA RAKYAT - Lima perkara utama
- Tegakkan maruah serta kualiti kehidupan rakyat
- Galakkan pembangunan saksama, lestari serta tangani krisis alam sekitar
- Raikan kerencaman dan keterangkuman
- Selamatkan demokrasi dan angkatkan keluhuran undang-undang
- Lawan rasuah dan kronisme