PUTRAJAYA: Economic Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali today expressed his shock and dismay over the mass shootings which took place at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand.
"I am shocked and deeply saddened by news of mass shootings in mosques at Christchurch, New Zealand.
"I condemn, in the strongest terms, these heinous acts of violence against innocent people," he said in a statement earlier.
Mohamed Azmin said he is in contact with Wisma Putra to monitor the situation in Christchurch as they continue to assist Malaysians there and work with local authorities to get further details.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and loved ones of those who have been killed and injured in this tragedy," he said.
Meanwhile, PKR president Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim described the shootings as a black mark against humanity and peace.
"I am deeply saddened by and regret this uncivilised act which goes against human values and claimed the lives of civilians.
"I condemn this in the strongest manner and am following the updates on this random shooting closely. According to New Zealand police, the situation is still dangerous and they are still working to apprehend the perpetrators.
"I was informed that a Malaysian was reportedly injured and is in stable condition. I hope the victim will remain strong in facing this and will recover.
"We send our deepest sympathies and condolences to the families of the victims and to all New Zealanders," he said in a statement.
Foreign Minister Datuk Saifuddin Abdullah also said in a Twitter post earlier that the injured Malaysian was in a stable condition.
"The High Commission had tweeted that a Malaysian is injured. His condition is stable," he said.
When contacted, a Wisma Putra spokesman said a statement will be issued on the incident later.
Earlier today, several people were killed in a deadly mass shooting at two mosques in Christchurch - one at the Al Noor Mosque next to Hagley Park, and another at the Linwood Mosque in the suburb of Linwood.