I am deeply disappointed by the comment of MP Khalid Samad on the issue of the word ‘Allah’ ban. As someone from PAS, I expect him to have a better understanding that Islam is not just a ‘tool’ that is being used to divide the rakyat and unify the Malays. In fact, it plays a pivotal role in determining the values and principles that our country hold on to.
It just so happens that the very definition of a Malay in the constitution is tied with Islam. You really can’t separate the Malay identity with Islam. It is quite shallow to conclude that a national issue that concerns Islam is only a ‘tool’ to unify the Malays when in fact it is part and parcel with the concerns of Malays.
As of the case of Charlie Hebdo in France, tensions do emerge as a result of radical provocations. The Catholic Church in Malaysia has proven to be adamant in imposing the use of Allah in the herald. Now that years has passed since their initial appeal, the court has come to a final conclusion that the word ‘Allah’ is not for use by the Herald. Since the courts are acting parallel to the legal provisions in Malaysia, there is no need to question the final ruling.
It is pertinent to remind ourselves to go back to the principles of the Rukunegara which emphasizes the supremacy of the constitution, the rule of law and courtesy and morality. These principles has shaped our multiracial nation and has helped maintain its peace and stability all this while.
When we reflect upon events in the Middle East and Europe, we have to build an understanding to the importance of maintaining peace, stability and the rule of law in our nation. Radical acts of going against any of the values aforementioned will only lead to more tension and instability.
It is time for the Catholic Church to finally settle down and compromise on the ruling that has been set. There has been much anger and tension over the issue since it was brought up a few years ago. This country has strived and succeeded in stability and peace through equity, not equality. Thus we should expect compromises to be done by anyone in order to adhere to the values that this country hold on very dearly to.
For decades have we defined our country in the most unique of values and we have prospered well in peace, stability, and understanding. Enough is enough. It is now time to move forward. By the way, for the record, the word ‘Allah’ was never a Malay word to begin with for the ban to ‘obstruct’ the freedom of Christians to worship.
Yusri Jamaluddin
New York, USA
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