NST
KOTA KINABALU: Problems and issues affecting the people should be tackled through proper and diplomatic discussion to avoid upsetting anyone.
Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Anifah Aman, in a statement, said sensitive issues related to the people's welfare and religion must be properly explained to prevent hurting the feelings and sentiments of those, especially from Sabah and Sarawak.
He was referring to a recent statement by Tourism and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Nazri Aziz, who had name-called Sarawak’s Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah over issues pertaining to the new Tourism Tax policy.
“As a friend in the Federal cabinet, I am of the view that this matter should have been discussed in a more diplomatic approach that represented the spirit of unity in BN,” he said.
Anifah, who is also Kimanis MP said it was not appropriate for Nazri to compare the numbers of five-star hotels in Sabah and Sarawak with those in the Peninsular.
“Datuk Seri Nazri is a friend and as a friend, I advise him to take step and solve this matter in a good manner.
“I believe Nazri will accept this ‘teguran’ (advise) for a common good as we, in the BN family, respect each other and work towards resolving any problem through proper channels in order to maintain harmony.
“The mandate and trust given by the people must always prevail in the interest of all Malaysians,” he added.
Nazri recently labelled Karim as “inexperienced” and a “young minister” for raising concerns over the tax, and reminded the latter not to be “samseng”.
His remarks triggered the wrath of Netizens as well as Sarawak Barisan Nasional leaders.
Nazri also said there were more five-star hotels in West Malaysia as compared to East Malaysia, explaining that revenue from the new tax collection will be distributed to all regions, including Sarawak.
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