INCIDENTS such as the recent protest in the Muslim-majority neighbourhood of Taman Medan in Petaling Jaya which forced the removal of a church’s cross — regardless of whether there was any involvement of a political party — demonstrates a regrettable level of religious tolerance among Malaysians. More regrettable, however, are the politicians who have thus far done little to help alleviate the problem, which actually was resolved peacefully. Instead, there was a clear intent by some to exploit the situation for political expedience. That the ensuing debate — politeness dictates the use of the term — exhibits a public fracture that runs along political lines is clear testament of this. Unfortunately, the inspector general of police (IGP) found himself caught right smack in the middle, his take on the matter questioned. That his position and that of the home minister were at odds only made the situation murkier than it need be. The former does not see a need for the protesters to be investigated for sedition while the latter insisted otherwise.
Given the rather convoluted aftermath, which included accusations that it was Umno-inspired, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak has ordered a probe on the protesters under the Sedition Act and other laws. All this because a church has decided to operate in a shoplot in an area where the local populace are mainly Malays hence, Muslims. While, the church’s recent appearance in their midst may have been deemed provocative to some, the Muslims, however, cannot deny the minority population a place of worship. Arguments that it could attract their children away from Islam only embarrasses the religion. For, the inference is clear, they have not nurtured their children enough to ensure an unshakeable belief in the religion. As some have noted, all over Malaysia, the muezzin calls the Muslim to prayer five times a day. If the cross can so endanger the faith of Muslim youths, why have not the azan, the call to prayer, brought throngs of non-Muslims to Islam?
Of course, the first move should have been a reasonable discussion between the church’s pastor, on the one hand, and the Muslim community leader, on the other. Instead, 50 people took it upon themselves to resort to thuggery — an act strongly condemned by the very religion they claim to protect, for Islam is a religion of peace, mercy and compassion. Such mindless acts of hatred and intolerance should never be allowed to flourish under whatever circumstances.
More importantly, however, as is clearly stated in the newly amended Sedition Act, race and religion are not to be made issues that would split this nation asunder. And what happened in Taman Medan is nothing if not motivated by religion. Here is a lesson for Malaysians. Sedition is the intention to incite the means to this country’s destruction. And under no circumstances should we allow bigotry to get the upper hand. It is therefore imperative that the authorities probe the matter thoroughly and those responsible, if found guilty, should be properly punished.