Mahathir warns of cultural onslaught

Mahathir warns of cultural onslaught

KUALA LUMPUR (AP): Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad accused foreign countries on Sunday of a cultural onslaught on Malaysia and blamed the Internet and CDs for increasing the incidence of violent crimes.

Quoted by the national news agency Bernama, Mahathir said alien cultures characterized by hedonism, violence and low morals were degrading Malaysia's traditional culture, which was based on ideals of harmonious living.

The messages were being delivered by media as diverse as the Internet and children's songs, he said.

Speaking to around 15,000 youths at a function organized by the Malaysian Youth Council, Mahathir repeated warnings that globalization favored stronger nations and threatened weaker ones.