Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, born on December 7, 1963, in Singapore, is a prominent Malaysian politician currently serving as the Minister of Home Affairs since December 2022. He is a key figure in the People's Justice Party (PKR), having held the position of Secretary-General from 2010 to 2014 and again from 2016 to 2024.
Saifuddin's political career began in the United Malays National Organisation (UMNO), where he served as the Assistant Secretary of its youth wing. In 1999, he joined PKR, aligning himself with the Reformasi movement led by Anwar Ibrahim. He has since held various parliamentary positions, including Member of Parliament for Machang (2008–2013) and Kulim-Bandar Baharu (2018–2022).
In the Pakatan Harapan administration under Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad, Saifuddin served as the Minister of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs from 2018 to 2020. His tenure was marked by efforts to enhance consumer protection and promote fair trade practices.
As Minister of Home Affairs, Saifuddin oversees critical areas such as internal security, immigration, and public order. His leadership is characterized by a commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring the safety and security of Malaysian citizens.
Saifuddin's extensive experience and dedication to public service continue to influence Malaysia's political landscape, particularly in areas concerning governance and national security.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail expressed regret over the incident, emphasizing that such allegations tarnish the integrity of the mosque institution.
Investigation Underway
“I received a complaint yesterday regarding a sermon at a mosque in Padang Serai. The sermon allegedly claimed that over a million Chinese nationals have been granted citizenship. This is highly regrettable,” Saifuddin stated, as reported by the New Straits Times.
The police have confirmed receiving a report on the matter and are conducting investigations. The Bukit Aman Special Task Force is monitoring the situation and will take action if it is found that the sermon incited racial hatred.
Addressing Divisive Narratives
Saifuddin warned against using mosques to promote divisive narratives, reiterating that such claims have been previously debunked by former Home Ministers Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin and Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainuddin.
He highlighted that mosques should focus on fostering faith, unity, and piety, not spreading misleading or inflammatory statements.
“If investigations reveal that the mosque platform was misused to spread such narratives, appropriate action will be taken,” Saifuddin assured.
Upholding Unity and Integrity
Saifuddin called on religious leaders to ensure that their sermons reflect values that strengthen unity and national harmony. He reaffirmed the government's commitment to addressing any efforts that seek to divide communities.
The incident underscores the need for vigilance against false claims and the responsible use of platforms that shape public discourse.
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