GEORGE TOWN, April 2 -- There is a need for mutual respect and understanding among Malaysians in light of recent incidents such as the "Allah" socks controversy, said Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.

The former prime minister said Malaysians are becoming less sensitive towards others.

He said it is important that Malaysians respect one another and understand the different cultures to prevent further similar controversies from repeating.

"When it comes to religious matters, it's not just Islam. We need to respect the other religions.

"We (Muslims) can't demand that others (non-Muslims) respect us. We, too, must respect them. Sometimes we need to put ourselves in the shoes of others," he was quoted saying by news portal Free Malaysia Tod...