Bersih protesters shallow-minded, says Najib

In his Merdeka Day message, Najib said the government rejected any form of street protests that disrupted public order.

"As you know in the past two days what has been going on is extremely inappropriate as it exhibits shallow minds and lack of national spirit," Najib said in speech at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC).

"We reject any form of street protests as it can threaten public order.

"It only burdens the people because it does not reflect maturity nor is it the right channel to air views in a democratic country."

Najib said  even the Kelantan mufti had declared street protests, as well as the Bersih 4 rally, as haram or prohibited in Islam.

He added that his critics were wrong to claim that the country was becoming a failed state because of his administration, and pointed to the growing economy and the success of his policies.

"So, Malaysians, judge the country through the ballot box in the elections.

"Until then, give the government the chance to continue carrying out its responsibility as well as it can," said Najib.He also warned that as the prime minister and a citizen of the country, he would not allow any "traitor" or "mastermind" to destroy Malaysia.

"But it's such a huge pity that on the eve of this meaningful Merdeka Day, there are several quarters who are willing to incite conflict and enmity," said Najib.

Dr Mahathir's presence at Bersih 4 was his second following a five-minute appearance yesterday, but it was also his first time partaking in any rally, for a man who was criticised for cracking down on opposition during his 22-year tenure as prime minister. 

Earlier, Dr Mahathir took a train ride from KL Sentral and disembarked at the Pasar Seni LRT station, accompanied by his wife Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Mohd Ali in a congested train. 

Dr Mahathir said he was not there for Bersih's demands. "I am just here (to demand) for Najib's resignation," he said. – August 30, 2015.

THE MALAYSIAN INSIDER