Gerakan has welcomed the Cabinet’s directive to government department heads to take firm action against civil servants who made “racist” statements that undermined 1Malaysia concept.

Gerakan deputy secretary-general Liang Teck Meng hoped the directive would put a stop to statements which are racist in nature or contain racial undertones that could cause disharmony and unhappiness amongst the people.

He said the Cabinet’s quick and decisive action would also dispel misconception that the government was slow or reluctant to take action to defend the all-inclusive 1Malaysia policy.

“The problem should be nipped in the bud to prevent the situation from worsening and causing further doubt amongst the people for the government’s 1Malaysia concept,” said Liang in a statement.

Liang said it was the duty of civil servants to serve the nation and people well, regardless of race and religion, and not to make insensitive remarks that would hurt the feelings of the people.

“In fact, every civil servant should support the 1Malaysia’s People First, Performance Now concept and help to realize its objective,” he added.

According to Health Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai, Najib had given the directive that any civil servant involved in issuing racist statement would face stern disciplinary action.

Last week, one school principal in Johor and another in Kedah, had caused unhappiness amongst the people because of their “racist” statements in front of students.