Media statement by Teresa Kok Suh Sim in Shah Alam on Saturday, 26^th May 2012:

Violence against Pakatan events, and the government's silence, takes Malaysia back to the 'Stone Age'

The recent spat of violence against Pakatan Rakyat leaders, members and supporters, during events such as ceramahs held nationwide, paints a frightening picture of what worse there is to come when more election functions and talks are held in the future - closer to election day. The progression of violence these past two weeks, which saw stones and eggs hurled at participants at Pakatan Rakyat events in Merlimau, Lembah Pantai, Pekan Bangi and Kuala Kangsar to name a few, is indeed a worrying scenario for what is to be expected in time.

If the Barisan Nasional government and the police have thus far remained lukewarm in its reaction and condemnation of the violence, I fear for the safety of all Malaysians who participates in democratically allowed events in the future. The authorities' lack of action in preventing these violent acts and protecting the rakyat at such events sends Malaysia back to the age of when civilisations lived in chaos and lawlessness.

I join in strongly with the chorus of voices ringing from the rakyat and my colleagues in Pakatan, in condemning the violence. I further urge the government and the police to portray some decency in acting as mature and responsible authority figures and act against those creating such violence. Such a response of maturity and integrity by the government will send out a tough a message to the tyrants that are besmirching Malaysia's name.

Malaysians are undoubtedly living in fear and shame as a result of these vicious attacks that is roused by the silence by the government. Is this the 1Malaysia concept the government campaigns for? Is this the Global Movement of Moderates the prime minister promotes? Is this what is meant by a free and fair elections?

Actions speak louder than words and some Malaysians, misled by an indifferent leadership, are sending this country back to the Stone Age with such nasty and uncivilised behaviour. I call on the government to immediately put an end to such untoward scenarios.

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