Malaysia condemns Sweden’s far right party burning of the Holy Quran

SHAH ALAM - The Malaysian government strongly condemns the action of Rasmus Paludan, leader of Sweden’s far right political party, Stram Kurs, burning a copy of the Holy Quran.

In a statement, today by Wisma Putra stated that the provocative action by Paludan has violated the spirit of freedom of speech and has labelled it as a form of hate crime.

"Such actions have gone beyond the norm and the limit of freedom of speech.

"Instead such action is an act of provocation and instils hate that should be condemned by all parties that seek peace and coexistence in a multicultural society.

"Malaysia also stressed the importance of eradicating all forms of violence and hatred including Islamophobia. Malaysia will continue to cooperate with the international community to prevent and remove Islamophobia sentiments as well as religious extremism,’’ said the statement.

The statement by Wisma Putra follows the action of Paludan who had burned a copy of the Holy Quran during a demonstration in Linkoping, Sweden.

Since Thursday Sweden police have clashed with protesters and counter-protesters in Stockholm and in the cities of Linkoping and Norrkoping – all locations where Stram Kurs either planned or had demonstrations.

Violent clashes were also recorded in the city of Orebro where12 police officers had suffered injuries and four police vehicles were set on fire.

Paludan and Stram Kurs have garnered traction since the European refugee crisis stemming from an influx of mainly middle eastern and African refugees making their way to the European continent since 2015.

The party has even called for the deportation of all Muslims from Sweden to preserve the country’s "ethnic” community.