Aaron had said in a statement today that debates focussing on religious differences could escalate tension and strain relationships among Malaysia’s multi-religious communities.

In a Facebook post, however, Zamri highlighted how the Speakers’ Corner in London allows the public to discuss and debate issues in a peaceful and harmonious manner.

“Instead of allowing some parties to provoke and fuel racial tensions that lead to polemics, it would be better to engage in mature dialogue. Wouldn’t that help in creating a civil society?” he said.

“When there is a problem, we need to discuss it and find a solution, not sweep it under the carpet and act like nothing happened.

“Why doesn’t the unity ministry organise this dialogue under the recently established (interfaith) harmony committee?”

The interfaith harmony committee, which comprises 25 religious scholars representing the various religions in the country, helps clarify religious issues while promoting interfaith harmony.

Zamri also said he will welcome any move by Saravanan to withdraw from the debate. However, he said Saravanan would first have to admit that he defamed him.

Saravanan last week called for action to be taken against Zamri as his “extremely disrespectful and deeply offensive remarks” went against the government’s stance on the 3Rs – race, religion and royalty.

Saravanan, who challenged Zamri to the debate, also urged authorities to arrest the latter under the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act 2012 (Sosma).

Zamri was investigated in 2019 for making statements deemed insulting to Hinduism, although he was not charged because of insufficient evidence.

His latest remarks came amid public anger over three Era FM radio hosts who were widely criticised for mocking the Thaipusam kavadi ritual.

While Saravanan claims that Zamri insulted Hindus when describing those performing the ritual during Thaipusam as being “possessed and drunk on toddy”, Zamri said he had only stated “facts and the truth”.