Malaysian PM, other leaders condemn arson attacks on three churches

Petaling Jaya, Jan (ANI): Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak has condemned the attacks on three churches in the Klang Valley.

"I condemn these actions because they will destroy our country's harmony. The Government will take whatever steps it can to prevent such acts,' he said on Friday.

Najib said he has told the national police chief to step up security at churches and other places of worship.

Other public figures of Malaysia have also come out to condemn the arson attacks against the two churches.

Urging all parties to remain calm, they also asked for swift police action to ensure the situation does not get out of control, The Star reports.

Selangor Mentri Besar Khalid Ibrahim, who was at the Assumption Church, condemned the attack, describing it as a cowardly act.

Khalid also said that he was grateful to the church auuthorities, who had given their reassurance that they would not react to the arson attack.

Umno Youth Chief Khairy Jamaluddin said it was a dark day for Malaysia.

"This is a despicable act. This is not the Malaysia I know," said Khairy, who visited the Metro Tabernacle Church in Desa Melawait in Kuala Lumpur, which was attacked by arsonists early Friday.

Social activist Datin Paduka Marina Mahathir said it was very important for all Muslim Malaysians to condemn the act whole-heartedly.

Veteran DAP leader Lim Kit Siang said all political party leaders should take a common stand to condemn the attacks. (ANI)