Anwar said the government will not compromise with those who play up 3R (race, religious and royalty) issues, which could disrupt harmony.

“Those who fail to comply (with this warning and exploit such issues) will face (legal) consequences, specifically leaders, political or otherwise, who exploit such issues for personal gain.

“If they continue doing so, they would destroy the nation,” he said after performing Friday prayers here.

He did not direct the warning to anyone in particular.

Three DJs recently sparked outrage after they mocked the kavadi ritual, leading to the trio being suspended and investigated by the police.

The controversy also led to independent preacher Zamri Vinoth stating in a Facebook post that Hindu worshippers performing the kavadi ritual said “Vel Vel” while appearing to be possessed or drunk, and he questioned why this was not considered insulting.

His remarks drew the ire of politicians across the divide, with MIC deputy president M Saravanan calling for authorities to arrest Zamri under the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act 2012 (Sosma).

Former deputy law and institutional reform minister Ramkarpal Singh called for immediate action against Zamri, saying the preacher clearly contravened laws such as Sections 504 and 505 of the Penal Code, which merited immediate investigation.

Section 504 relates to insults made with the intent of provoking a breach of the peace, while Section 505 concerns statements conducive to public mischief.