Media statement by Teresa Kok Suh Sim in Shah Alam on Thursday, 30^th December 2010:

Najib should apologise to Christian Federation of Malaysia for "de-Christianising" their Christmas celebration, which yet again denied Malaysians the right to freedom of religion

The Prime Minister's Office's directive to remove crucifixes and prohibit Christian hymns and Christian prayers at the Christian Federation of Malaysia's high tea on Christmas Day last Saturday was highly disrespectful and yet another act by the Government to deny Malaysians the right to freedom of religion.

Such an order from the Prime Minister's Office's shows how insincere and ungracious Najib behaved as a guest at the celebration held at the Catholic Church Archbishop's residence. It is doubtful that Najib could have been unaware that his office had issued such a directive and far more likely that he is back-pedaling after having been exposed and publicly shamed.

The Prime Minister's Office's directive is a betrayal of the multi-ethnic, multi-religious 1Malaysia that Najib so fervently preaches. If only Najib would match his beautifully written PR spiel with credible action.

I therefore urge Najib to issue a public apology and direct the Government to respect the traditions of Christmas and the right of all Malaysians to freedom of religion.

I hope Najib and his office can be aware that there is a deeper meaning to Christmas beyond the Santa Claus and snow, and that that deeper meaning should be respected.

* Teresa Kok Suh Sim, Selangor State Senior EXCO for Investment, Industry & Trade & MP for Seputeh