KOTA KINABALU – Two more politicians have joined the chorus calling for calm and respect following the high court’s ruling on the use of the word “Allah” and three others in Christian publications.
Former Islamic affairs minister Datuk Seri Mujahid Yusuf Rawa told The Vibes that everyone needs to respect the high court’s decision.
“Malays felt that the word ‘Allah’ in Christian publications could confuse Muslims. I had debated that, under Article 11 (4), non-Muslims are generally prohibited from using the word to convert others. If there are those who try to convert Muslims, a police report can be lodged as it is an offence under the federal constitution.
“When the issue came about, we allowed hatred and enmity to fester. But cooler heads have prevailed, prioritising dialogue to preserve peace and unity.”
Mujahid recalled that he took the stand of seeking to have dialogues over the issue from 2009 to 2013 to counter intentions of using negative sentiments to push a wedge between various communities.
“Islam is a religion of peace, hence, organising peaceful dialogue was more important than just consenting to use of the word ‘Allah’ or whether non-Muslims have the right to use it.
“In this case, Christians in Sabah and Sarawak are the ones more inclined to use the word ‘Allah’ as a direct translation in their religious materials. In the peninsula, there is no issue.”
Mujahid, who is also Amanah vice-president, urged all parties to improve on their interfaith understanding and for Muslims to exhibit the best example of their religion.
“Should we spread Islam through the kind approach of Prophet Muhammad, or should we adopt violence and extremism to spread our faith?
“Amanah has decided to respect the due process of the law and does not plan to exploit religious sentiments over this matter.
“There are bigger issues to champion, such as the oppression of democracy and a government that governs without a people’s mandate. We should all be fighting such issues together.”
Sabah Deputy Meanwhile, Chief Minister II Datuk Seri Jeffrey Kitingan, who lauded the court ruling, said the issue can be put to rest, seeing it has been a source of discord for many years.
“I hope no party will politicise the decision as this issue has never been about politics. It was a legal matter to be decided on by the court.
“In Sabah, we have always been respectful towards each other, regardless of our religious and racial background.”
On a handful of parties calling for Putrajaya to refer the ruling to the appellate court, he said it is up to the federal government to decide whether to do so.
“Umno and PAS have a right to their opinions. At the same time, they should also respect the court’s decision.”
Bersatu also joined the two parties in calling for the government to appeal the decision. – The Vibes, March 12, 2021
Additional reporting by Jason Santos
