Malaysiakini(http://www.malaysiakini.com)
1. Jakim guidelines contrary to 1Malaysia ideals, 20 January 2011
by M Krishnamoorthy
Non-Muslim Malaysians have been tolerant and appreciate all Islamic prayers before meetings, speeches and in schools and have not objected, said Senator S.Ramakrishnan.
"The Jakim guidelines for Muslims celebrating religious festivals of Non-Muslims shock me because it is telling Muslims not to attend other religious festivals that include religious symbols such as the cross, lights, candles, Christmas trees and so forth.
"The circular does not allow the Muslims to attend events when Non Muslims sing religious songs or when they put any religious markings on the forehead, or other markings onto parts of the body."
In some Chinese and Indian events, Ramakrishnan said that they were so tolerant to engage a Muslim Imam to recite Muslim prayers before their meetings.
"We always observe all the Islamic verses recited with our heads bowed down in respect of living in a multi-religious society.
"Muslims are being advised by Jakim that they cannot bow or conduct acts of honour to the religious ceremony of non-Muslims.
"It is astonishing that Muslims cannot attend functions when Non Muslims deliver speeches or gestures in the form of praise to the non-Muslim religion," he added.
It is ironic Jakim does not seem to align itself with Prime Minister's Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak's vision of One Malaysia.
"It is admirable that the Prime Minister took his Thaipusam message on the road by visiting two Hindu temples and witnessed the annual religious celebrations.
Calling Thaipusam part of the "wonderful diversity of our culture" which should be appreciated, Najib visited Batu Caves and also to Sungai Petani, Kedah later in the day.
"I am looking forward to meet with many Malaysians of Hindu faith at the Subramaniya Swami Devasthanam temple in Sungai Petani," Najib said in his Thaipusam Day message which he posted on his blog yesterday.
Ramakrishnan said that this was contrary to what appeared on Jakim's website.
"I do not understand why Jakim should feel threatened by gestures of goodwill made by leaders trying to unite the various races.
"I urge the Government to investigate and urge Jakim to remove the guidelines for Muslims celebrating religious festivals of non-Muslims."
The 68th muzakarah of the National Fatwa Committee for Islamic Religious Affairs on April 12, 2005 discussed the guidelines for Muslims celebrating religious festivals of non-Muslims. The muzakarah had decided on determining what non-Muslim celebrations that can be attended by Muslims.
It further stipulated the main criteria should serve as guidelines so as not to contradict the teachings of Islam.
It stated that the Non Muslim events should not be accompanied by ceremonies that are "against the Islamic faith" - which could be a thing, act, word or situation which if conducted, will lead to tarnishing the faith of Muslims.
For example, it stated that wearing red costumes like Santa Claus or other garments that reflect religion, and having sounds or ornaments like church bells, Christmas tree, temple or breaking of coconuts were not acceptable practices to Muslims.
2. Religious freedom proves gov't is fair: Najib, 21 January 2011
Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak said the freedom of religion practiced in the country proved that the government is fair to all.
He said the facilities and assistance provided to religious bodies also reflected the government's aspiration in seeing the people live in peace and harmony.
"We can see today Hindu devotees celebrate the Thaipusam freely throughout the country," he said at the Thaipusam celebration at the Subramaniya Swami Devasthanam Temple in Sungai Petani last night.
The prime minister said the government's stand in maintaining racial and religious harmony could be seen clearly through the 1Malaysia concept which was based on unity.
"Our future will be stronger, or we will lose if we reject this strong bond," he added.
Najib said he believed that people would not be narrow-minded to reject the 1Malaysia concept even though the Selangor state government prohibited the use of the logos.
On Thaipusam, he said if BN were to win the next general election, Thaipusam would be declared a public holiday in Kedah.
"If the state is ruled by the same party, then it is easier for us to negotiate," he said.
Najib said the government would consider applications for financial assistance to upgrade the temple.
About 50,000 Hindu devotees attended the celebration at the temple last night.
Bernama
(End)
