Moderation is strength not weakness

Confrontational tactics counter-productive

I refer to “Ong: Allow converts to leave Islam when marriage ends” (Star,May 1).

One of the biggest lessons from the recently concluded general elections is the call for moderation by the people of all ethnicity. Contrary to what was generally perceived it was a pleasant surprise to realize that moderation and not extremism was what the people want as the guiding factor in inter-ethnic relations.

MCA President, Datuk Seri Ong Ka Ting’s suggestions on the various problems related to non-Muslim conversion to Islam is timely and commendable. The government should consider the views of the leader of the second largest component of Barisan Nasional(BN) seriously as it represents the sentiments of the majority of non-Muslims Malaysians.

Ong rightly pointed out that over the last few years there were an unprecedented number of religious matters involving constitutional rights of non-Muslims which were not handled fairly giving rise to a lot of anxiety among them. I am sure his concerns are shared by all non-Muslim Malaysians. The underlying cause of these problems is a lack of goodwill, moderation and understanding of the sensitivities of non-Muslims faiths.

The recent elections have shown that not only the non-Muslims but a significant number of Muslims as well are deeply disturbed with the way inter-religious disputes are being tackled by the BN government. This has given rise to a great deal of unnecessary tension among the people and a negative perception of Islam itself among the non-Muslims.

The only way to find amicable solutions to inter-religious disputes and misunderstanding is through dialogue. A council consisting of members from all religions must be constituted to discuss and chart guidelines for all. It is important to include members of all faiths in that council as there is no way a dispute can be solved if an aggrieved party is excluded from such a dialogue. Confrontational tactics in any form will never produce lasting solution but only aggravate the already tense situation.

Meanwhile it may be timely to look at more comprehensive ways to foster closer understanding of each other’s religious believes among the people. It should start from an early age in schools where the children of all religions should be allowed to mingle and be taught the fundamentals of all the major faiths in the country. While acknowledging their differences special efforts must be made to emphasize their similarities. Segregating the children based on race and religion for whatever reasons will not only be counterproductive but is against the very ideals of the religions themselves - promoting love among mankind.

There is a wrong perception among the people that moderation and tolerance to each other’s cultural and religious differences is a sign of weakness. On the contrary these are signs of strength which need to be emphasized repeatedly to our children from an early age.

Dr.Chris Anthony