Could upcoming elections embolden extremist elements to target religious sites?

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Upcoming Elections May Encourage Extremist Actions Against Religious Sites

The Council of Churches of Malaysia (CCM) has expressed significant concern over a recent act of desecration at a Methodist Church in Kota Baru on January 7. This incident, where a petrol bomb was thrown and landed on the church building, causing façade damage, is viewed by the CCM as a potential precursor to further unrest, particularly in the lead-up to the 2018 national General Elections.
Attack on Kota Baru Methodist Church

On January 7, a petrol bomb was thrown at a Methodist Church in Kota Baru, resulting in damage to the building's façade. Police investigations indicate that the object was hurled from the Sultan Yahya Petra bridge, with evidence suggesting both the church and a nearby temple were targeted. The CCM has strongly condemned this act, characterising it as a deliberate attempt by extremists to incite religious intolerance.
Call for Firm Police Action

The CCM is urging the Malaysian police to take decisive action against what they describe as a growing trend of vandalism and arson directed at religious buildings. Reverend Hermen Shastri, general secretary of the CCM, highlighted the need for a robust response to disrupt efforts aimed at undermining inter-religious harmony. This call for action stems from the organisation's belief that such attacks are strategically designed to provoke discord.
Potential for Escalation Before Elections

The Council of Churches of Malaysia has warned that if these acts of desecration and vandalism are not curbed, they could embolden extremist groups and other unscrupulous elements. This concern is particularly heightened with the impending 2018 national General Elections, suggesting a fear that the heightened political climate could be exploited to further destabilise religious relations within the country.

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Could upcoming elections embolden extremist elements to target religious sites?

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