Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has condemned the “vile and treacherous” attack on the son of former economy minister Rafizi Ramli at a shopping mall in Putrajaya today.
In a Facebook post, Anwar said he had contacted home minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail to ensure that a transparent and speedy investigation is carried out into the incident.
“We have yet to recover from the issue of bullying in schools, and now, another deeply regrettable act has occurred … a vile and treacherous attack on the son of our brother Rafizi.
“I am praying for the wellbeing of Rafizi and his family,” he said.
Earlier today, the Pandan MP said his son was dragged and stabbed with a syringe by an assailant at about 1.45pm as his son and wife were getting into their car.
The former PKR deputy president described the attack as unprecedented in his political career and believed that it was meant as a warning for him to stop speaking out on certain issues.
In a statement, Saifuddin said the police would conduct a full and impartial investigation.
He said the home ministry viewed the incident seriously, and stressed that the safety of the public, including children, remains the ministry’s top priority.
“We will not compromise on any form of violence or threats,” he said.
Separately, PKR secretary-general Fuziah Salleh said the party was shocked and saddened by the incident.
Fuziah said she prayed for the speedy recovery of Rafizi’s son, and hoped that Rafizi and his family would remain strong in facing the ordeal.
“Children must never be made victims under any circumstances. Such an act is cruel, inhumane, and must be condemned in the strongest terms,” she said.
