“I disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it.”

― Evelyn Beatrice Hall, as an illustration of Voltaire’s beliefs

COMMENT | On the outset, let me declare that I do not know and have not met US academic Bruce Gilley and neither do I subscribe or agree with his latest utterances which I read, and the reaction from local leaders.

I am also against any form of violence and certainly sympathise with the people of Palestine who are being driven to the brink of starvation and death by the actions of the Israeli army.

However, I am against anyone trying to rile up people against those who express views contrary to the government’s opinions.

Yes, Gilley did ruffle more than a few feathers but why is the line of reaction and argument based on the lines of intra-party and inter-party bickering by local politicians?

If the intention is to score brownie points ahead of the Kuala Kubu Baharu by-election, there are even...