Stand Up, Speak Out

Press Statement by Gerakan Penang State Liaison Committee at a Press Conference held on Monday, 8 September 2008 at 10.30 pm at Gerakan Headquarters, Penang

(1)          At the emergency meeting of the Gerakan Penang State Liaison Committee tonight, it was resolved that Gerakan Penang will severe ties with UMNO Penang

(2)          Gerakan Penang state leaders and member are all very shocked and angry. We condemned the statement and irresponsible behavior of Ahmad Ismail and his supporters at their press conference this afternoon.

(3)          We are also extremely disappointed and saddened by the fact that many UMNO Penang state liaison committee leaders were present and condoned such irresponsible and insensitive statement and behavior.

(4)          In trying to deny and deflect his mistakes, Ahmad Ismail had twisted and turned a personal mistake into a conflict and crisis among BN component parties and worst still, amongst communities.

(5)          His statement warning the Chinese community not to behave like Jews in America, controlling the economy and political power, was totally irresponsible and uncalled for. He also tried to incite feelings of Malays and Muslims.

(6)          Moreover, the action of his supporters to take down, tear and step on my photograph was seen and felt not only as an act of disrespect and humiliation to me personally, but also to the whole party and BN.

(7)          Such words and behavior have angered many right-thinking Malaysians. We also received feedback that members of the public, especially from the Chinese community, were feeling humiliated as well.

(8)          While people can express their views in words, we urge them to stay calm and refrain from any demonstration or physical act of expression. We must maintain peace and order at all times.

(9)          In view of such serious transgressions, Penang Gerakan will lodge police reports against Ahmad Ismail and his supporters. We urge the authorities, BN and UMNO to take firm and harsh action.