Non-Malays will back silat exponents to fight traitors, says grandmaster
By Boo Su-Lyn, The Malaysian Insider
KUALA LUMPUR, July 7 — A silat grandmaster expects non-Malays to join ranks with practitioners of the Malay martial art to battle “traitors” of the country.
Pertubuhan Seni Silat Lincah Malaysia (PSSLM) Mahaguru (grandmaster) Tan Sri Omardin Mauju said yesterday that silat exponents would not allow street demonstrations that disturbed public order.
“We will rise and oppose these traitors,” Omardin said at PSSLM’s 50th anniversary last night. “Not only the Malays, but the children of 1 Malaysia and other races will also be with us.
“We’re ready to die,” he added, seated in a wheelchair as he delivered his speech.
Omardin recently threatened to “wage war” against Bersih activists, should their rally calling for electoral reforms proceeded this Saturday.
Bersih 2.0 on Tuesday decided to gather at a stadium instead of demonstrating on the streets of Kuala Lumpur, after its leaders met the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.
Omardin pointed out yesterday that there were non-Malays in his association.
A few Chinese and Indians could be seen at the gathering dressed in black, instead of the traditional Malay costume worn by most of the more than 100 PSSLM members present.
“This is an extraordinary success that we have never witnessed, in line with the 1 Malaysia concept,” said Omardin, referring to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak’s brainchild.
Omardin recently referred to silat exponents as the third line of defence of the country. Najib repeated this yesterday, stressing that other practitioners of self-defence were also part of the line-up.
Despite Bersih’s audience with the king, and Najib’s earlier assurance that the Bersih rally could be held in a stadium, the police have told the polls watchdog to apply for a permit for the event.
