KUALA LUMPUR: The police should not hesitate to take action against situations that threaten the country's unity across races and societies, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
The Prime Minister said cases involving racial harmony needed to be dealt with firmly according to existing laws.
"I give full authority to the Inspector-General of Police and I will not interfere with any investigation matters, instead I will constantly urge not to compromise to save the country.
"In Islam, it is mentioned that we are preachers, not judges. We have judges and there are courts that will follow the legal path and methods.
"Even as preachers, we cannot incite hatred or encourage people to act arbitrarily.
"We will definitely not compromise with any actions that insult any race or religion, especially Islam," he said in his speech during the 217th Police Day Celebration.
Anwar also warned the public against breaking the law no matter their status, including politicians.
Also in attendance were Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain, Deputy Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay, Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail and Deputy Home Minister Datuk Seri Shamsul Anuar Nasarah.
Others included Chief Justice of Malaysia Tun Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat, Attorney-General Datuk Ahmad Terrirudin Mohd Salleh, Armed Forces Chief Tan Sri Mohammad Ab Rahman, Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Mohd Zuki Ali and Public Service Department Director-General Wan Ahmad Dahlan Abdul Aziz.
Anwar also called on all parties including the police to be strict in fighting those involved in corruption.
"I plead to the police to be strict and brave (to investigate matters of corruption.
"When corruption becomes systemic, it will erode the pillars of the force. True bravery is to fight against this (corruption) for the people," he said.
He added the country was currently not only focusing on national security but also striving in new challenges such as digital transformation, climate change, and energy transition.
"Issues like education quality, proficiency in Malay and other languages, children's intelligence in IT, are among the challenges that we need to focus on," he said.