IT IS FEDERAL CONSTITUTION THAT PROTECTS ISLAM & MALAY RIGHTS, NOT PERKASA

I refer to the official launch of Pertubuhan Pribumi Perkasa Malaysia (PERKASA) today by our former prime minister, Tun Dr Mahathir.

In the reported opening speech of its President, Ibrahim Ali, who is also an Independent Pasir Mas MP, Perkasa was described as a group that aims to "defend Islam, the special rights of Malays and Bumiputeras."

He went on further to warned political parties against making an enemy out of Perkasa. According to him, those that do so will find themselves losing at the elections

With due respect to Ibrahim Ali, who is also an Independent Pasir Mas MP, our Federal Constitution already provides protection to the special rights of Malays and Bumiputeras under Article 153.

Article 3 of the Federal Constitution also states clearly that Islam is the religion of the Federation, although other religion may practice in peace and harmony in our country.

So, I cannot comprehend why there is any further need for Perkasa to potray themselves as the ultimate defender of Islam, the special rights of Malays and Bumiputeras. All these rights are well protected in our Federal Constitution under our Yang Di-Pertuan Agong and the Rulers of States.

No one in our country is currently threatening the abolishment of Article 3 and Article 153 of the Federal Constitution.

On the arrogant warning to political parties against making enemy out of Perkasa, I believe many Malaysians do not need Perkasa and would actually distant themselves from Perkasa, save as their own members. Malaysian are fully aware of the contents and the protections accorded under the Federal Constitution.

So, I am quite amused as to how Perkasa would be able to significantly affect the results of any elections in our country.