In a Facebook post, she alleged that certain leaders were sowing discord to divide Malaysians without regard for the negative consequences of their actions.

Describing such politicians as “stumbling blocks” to national unity, she said they were bogging down the government with unnecessary issues for their political survival.

She also said Malaysia would be perceived as a “rudderless nation influenced by narrow-minded little Napoleons” if nothing concrete was done to stop such divisive actions.

“The actions of these chest-thumping leaders will give the impression that they are holding the leaders in the coalition government to ransom,” she said.

“It is hoped that the government and the relevant authorities will take strong action to curb such activities.

“There is no doubt that the vast majority of people in Malaysia are striving to live in a peaceful environment with much goodwill and harmony, respecting each other’s faiths and cultures.

“We must be proud to be Malaysians.”

Rafidah was commenting on how certain politicians had been playing up the controversy surrounding the sale of socks at KK Mart bearing the word “Allah” to score political points.

She told FMT that provocative statements from such leaders could spark racial and religious strife.