KUALA LUMPUR: Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing has criticised former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad over his remarks criticising the use of languages other than Malay on signboards.

The Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister, in a statement on his Facebook, reminded all that consistently raising racial and religious issues contributes nothing to the country's progress.

Tiong added that as a statesman, Mahathir should support efforts to ensure stable national development rather than clinging to outdated attitudes.

"In recent years, we have heard little more than unconstructive statements from him, with no contributions towards economic growth or social harmony.

"Is Dr Mahathir genuinely committed to fostering economic progress and unity among Malaysians? The answer is clear to us all," Tiong said.

In the same posting, Tiong also expressed concerns over Kuala Lumpur City Hall's (DBKL) recent enforcement against Chinese-language signboards, describing the actions as excessive and counterproductive.

"Some international visitors have even asked, 'Is Malaysia a racist or religiously extreme country?'

"Such doubts directly influence tourists' decisions to visit Malaysia and undermine the country's competitiveness on the global stage.

"We must not create a false negative image that contradicts our reality as a multiracial, multicultural, and multireligious country," he said.

Tiong highlighted the need for inclusivity to boost the nation's image, As Malaysia prepares to chair Asean in 2025.

"This is a golden opportunity to showcase Malaysia's diversity and inclusivity on the global stage.

"However, ongoing racial or religious controversies risk undermining international confidence and the Visit Malaysia Year 2026 campaign," he cautioned.  

The minister also urged DBKL to focus on constructive initiatives.

"Instead of sparking controversy through excessive enforcement, DBKL should collaborate with the Visit Malaysia Year campaign to improve infrastructure and create attractions that offer tourists exciting experiences," he said.  

The council was reportedly penalizing businesses not using Bahasa Malaysia in their signboards since October, with five premises compounded along Jalan Imbi.

In a post on Facebook, DBKL said these premises had violated the Advertisements (Federal Territories) By-Laws 1982.

https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2024/11/1139065/tiong-criticises-dr-mahathirs-remarks-signboard-issue