In a Facebook post, Zulkifli urged devout Muslims to avoid using such language and remain conscious of their word choices at all times.

He also said that August, a month during which the country celebrates independence, should be a time for Malaysians to reflect on the country’s peace and foster unity, rather than “stoking hostility merely due to political ideological differences”.

“Malaysians need to reject this dangerous extreme thinking,” he said.

“Contemporary scholars have clarified that non-Muslims residing in a country and enjoying rights and responsibilities within that country are citizens bound by the country’s laws and constitution. They are muwatinun (citizens).

“Muslims should adhere to the Ahlus Sunnah wal Jamaah school of thought, practicing a moderate approach with courtesy and noble character,” he said.

Earlier today, several Malay DAP leaders demanded an apology over a viral video clip in which a person labelled the party as “kafir harbi” during a recent Perikatan Nasional ceramah for the Nenggiri by-election.

Three DAP central executive committee members – Sheikh Umar Bagharib Ali, Bangi MP Syahredzan Johan and Bentong MP Young Syefura Othman – also demanded that PAS and PN leaders clarify their stance on the use of the term.

The trio said they strongly condemned the individual’s actions, as DAP was a legitimate party with diverse members including Muslims.