Avoid creating 'unnecessary issues' online that may harm racial harmony, says minister

Tourism, arts and culture minister Tiong King Sing has reportedly urged Malaysians to avoid "creating unnecessary issues" on social media that could lead to misunderstandings and harm racial harmony in the country. 

The comment comes as users criticised a viral video promoting Melaka tourism which allegedly focused on elements of a single ethnicity, reported The Star. 

Minister Tiong reportedly said that a check by the ministry found that the video was produced by a TV station in China to promote tourism in the state.

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The video, posted by Tourism Melaka Channel on YouTube, saw a line of Chinese women and a line of Malaysians dancing and walking around significant locations in Melaka. The two groups meet in front of Christ Church and perform a remix of Rasa Sayang and a mandarin song as townsfolk watch, dance and cheer them on. 

The video was also reportedly in conjunction with the 50th anniversary of Malaysia-China diplomatic relations. The minister reportedly said that Malaysians must learn to preserve harmony and unity, as these are the most important aspects of the country.

 He reportedly added that prime minister Anwar Ibrahim has worked hard to maintain harmony and hopes that Malaysians can unite regardless of race or religion. 

The state of Melaka has been pushing its tourism as of late. This is especially following the appointment of Chinese actress Fan BingBing as its tourism ambassador. BingBing kicked off her role with a visit to Melaka in June this year. Of which, the state trended on WeChat with the term 'Melaka' receiving over 320 million searches over two days, according to Fan's PR manager Jersey Chong. 

During Fan's trip, hundreds of people gathered at Bandar Hilir, a key Melaka heritage site, to catch a glimpse of the actress. Some gathered as early as 10am to wait for her arrival. Fan visited key tourist destinations of Melaka, such as the Baba House Melaka, Melaka River Cruise and local Peranakan restaurants too. 

Photo courtesy Tiong King Sing, X

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