Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail has urged the public not to take the law into their own hands following a suspected Molotov cocktail attack on Beruas MP Ngeh Koo Ham’s house earlier this morning.
“The police want to remind the public that any reckless actions without taking into consideration the due process of law is an offence that may result in severe punishment,” Saifuddin said in a special press conference at the Home Ministry in Putrajaya this afternoon.
He also called on the people to not make speculation or conclusions that could interfere with the police investigation.
“The incident is being investigated under Section 435 of the Penal Code for mischief by fire.”
Earlier, Perak police chief Yusri Hassan Basri confirmed that the fire that broke out at Ngeh’s house was suspected to be an act of arson and noted that the investigation is being carried out from multiple angles.
It was reported that there were no casualties in the 2.50am incident, although three cars were razed, including a Mercedes E300, which was about 80 percent burnt.
Also partially burnt were a Honda CRV and Toyota Hilux, as well as the house’s porch roof.
Ngeh and his wife were reportedly asleep during the incident before a couple rang their doorbell to alert them of the fire.
The DAP leader has since expressed forgiveness towards the alleged arsonists behind the fire.
“I forgive those who want to burn my cars, house, and even harm my family if they have been misled by falsehood and instigated by others to hate and commit violence,” said Ngeh.
He added that as a lawyer with 38 years of experience, he knows that a person does not have a happy life once a crime has been committed as they are now living in fear.
“I want to tell them (the perpetrators) to turn over a new leaf, be good citizens, and do not cause your families to be worried,” he said.
However, he blamed Perikatan Nasional components PAS and Bersatu for fanning tensions that led to the incident.
Ngeh said arson was suspected due to a statement he made on Dec 28 where he suggested including non-Muslim experts in the special committee to review the jurisdiction of the Syariah Court.
Following widespread backlash, he apologised and withdrew his proposal.
Saifuddin also reiterated Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil’s remarks that the cabinet has condemned the attack on Ngeh’s residence.
Saifuddin assured the public that the police will conduct thorough investigations into the incident.
“The police and fire department’s forensics team are carrying out further investigations to determine the motive of the incident and the suspects in the case.
“We also reiterate that public safety is guaranteed because this is the number one commitment of the police. The police are committed to public safety.”
This morning, DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke had also condemned the alleged attack on Ngeh’s house.
PAS information chief Ahmad Fadhli Shaari and Pejuang information chief Rafique Rashid also denounced the incident.
“PAS believes that differences in views and beliefs do not justify such actions that have gone beyond the limits of law and morality, especially when they threaten lives and property safety.
“Therefore, every effort must be made immediately to diffuse the possible tension that could have been a result of the indifferences,” PAS secretary-general Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan said in a statement today.
Meanwhile, MCA president Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong said the police must investigate and apprehend the criminals behind the Molotov cocktail attack on Ngeh’s house urgently.
“This goes against Malaysian culture and, indeed, any civilised society.
“Those who break the law for any reason must face firm action and punishment by the court if found guilty.
“Malaysia is a civilised democratic society, and despite differing opinions and beliefs, we should not resort to violence and indecent acts to voice against what we disagree with.
“I urge all Malaysians to condemn such violence,” he said in a Facebook post on Wednesday.