Tuan Guru Nik Abdul Aziz Nik Mat, the top PAS
spiritual leader scored 2 major victories for peace over his weekend visit to
Penang. First his unprecedented call on DAP Chairman and political antagonist
Karpal Singh at the latter's home and the second was his meeting with the
Bishop of Penang Sebastian Francis. Both these visits, coincided with the 82nd
birthday of the PAS leader, and came at a time when Muslim- Christian tensions
were running high of late, leading to the planned burning of bibles in Penang.
By calling on Karpal,Nik Aziz has shown a level of statesmanship
that in not seen in our local political scene. The attitude of ‘agree to
disagree’ is most welcome and an example for all political leaders. The goodwill
behind Nik Aziz-Karpal meeting gave a boost to the unity of the parties in
Pakatan. The meeting with Bishop Sebastian was a sign of his concern for the
safety and respect for Christians as it was a day for the planned burning of
bibles by Muslims in Penang. His actions help calm the tense situation that was
created by irresponsible parties.
Nik Aziz is the most sought after man for peace
among the various races and faiths in the country. He is revered by both the
Muslims and non-Muslims alike for his life of simplicity and honesty. He is a
symbol of what a real man of God should be - simple, honest, and righteous and
above all have the love for fellow men regardless of their race or creed. If
only there are more such people like him among Muslims and non-Muslims alike there
will not be any major inter-faith disputes that will be beyond amicable
solution.
On this 82nd birthday we wish TG Nik Aziz a very
happy and memorable birthday. We pray that God (whatever name we prefer to call
Him) will bless him with good health for many more years so that he can
continue to be a guiding and moderating figure for inter-faith harmony in the
country. His presence is of great importance at time of intense political campaigning
for the crucial 13GE that may create tensions among the people of diverse
faiths.
We pray that God will bring together more moderate
minded leaders like Tok Guru from all religions to the forefront of our nation
so that the suspicion and hate among the people of different faiths will soon
disappear from the hearts of all Malaysians.
Happy birthday Tok Guru.
God bless Malaysia
Happy birthday Tok Guru.
God bless Malaysia