"Allah" issue: Who started it?

By Jacqueline Ann Surin

Comments are now closed for this article as per our policy

Non-partisan Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 10.22AM

The roots of fascism are found in every human being.

While Umno's behaviour and policies have attributes similar to fascism, is the PR immune from this plague?

I agree with your suggestion of the government holding educational forums. But after calling them fascists, I wonder whether Najib will heed your call.

Farouq Omaro Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 10.26AM

Part of the problem stems from Muslims' ignorance* of Christianity. Many do not know of Christianity but like to speak of it. For example there was this one person who told me that Christians worship three Gods - the Father, the Son and the Mother! Then there is this other person who said that the Injil (Gospel) mentioned in the Quran is the Bible! There are many other instances. This is not helped by the government's misinformation on Christianity or any other religions for that matter. For example since I was young I was told that Buddhists and Hindus worship statues! But do you hear non-Muslims accusing Muslims of worshipping calligraphy? No, because they know Muslims are not worshipping calligraphy. This shows that non-Muslims understand Islam more than most Muslims understand non-Islamic religions. Muslims need to understand other faiths from the viewpoint of those who profess those faiths.

*not all Muslims

Maz Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 11.23AM

There is no monopoly on Allah: http://bit.ly/931sR9

Robert Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 11.40AM

Jacqueline, you hit the nail right on the head. Umno, we are not stupid. We have been tolerating your racial abuses for too long and we are not going to take it anymore. All your racial crap is simply to hold to power and it make the Malay [Malaysians] scared of changing the government. I think many Malays are smarter now, and are also tired of race-based politics. Let's change the government in the next general election!

Terence Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 11.47AM

Undoubtly this is a polarising issue that is centralised on race rather than religion. Religion is being used to justify a racial policy. Making sure that no more rights should be given up is a stand that should NOT be backed down from. We do have to address the racial issue in the country and how to change the equation so that all Malaysians will not get pulled into this trap.

To address this issue we need to:

1) Understand and solve the real world issues facing a majority of Malay [Malaysians] in our country. We CANNOT afford anymore racial based presumptions of "I take care of mine, and you take care of yours". Obviously the government has failed in provide a stable, nurturing environment for a majority of its citizens.
- Low income
- Poor education
- Limited oppurtunities in the commercial sector

2) Come up with proper legislation similar to a Race Relations act with clear guidelines on discrimination

3) Have a fair judiciary and prosecute hate crimes in those courts. ISA should be abolished. A sign of a mature society is being able to have these discussions instead of sweeping it under the carpet.

4) Race and Religion discussions. Real ones. Not government-sponsored but between real religious leaders. Positive reinforcement of faith between parties.

5) De-constructing the current siege mentality of the current Malay [Malaysian] population by showing the positive benefits of a needs, social and merit-based society. I would go so far as to look into socialist-type programs that look at re-training, re-educating, counselling and hiring.

Dr. Adrian Wong Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 12.12PM

Excellent write-up as usual, Jacqueline. It's appalling to see the BN government twist and turn in their shameless attempts to deny responsibility for this debacle. It is obvious to all (but themselves) that they not only poured the fuel, but also lit the fire that started it all!

If we want to change things, we have to stop voting in the same cabal of greedy and corrupt politicians that do not seem to mind tearing this country apart, as long as it keeps them in power. They continue to pander to the extremists despite history's many examples of disastrous outcomes when other politicians did the very same thing!

Instead of promoting 1Malaysia, we should promoting Save Malaysia! If we love our country, we will have to stand up and save it. Another term under the BN government will destroy this country we ALL call home.

ng boon tat Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 12.31PM

"If Umno is such a champion of Malay Muslims, why is it perpetuating this age of ignorance instead of educating Muslims..."

Because if the Malay Muslims become clever, then they won't need umno anymore. Simple strategy, isn't it? A case of self preservation...

mohan Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 12.31PM

Although this started in 1986, the issue was brought back by Syed Hamid Albar, our previous home minister. I am surprised [he] cannot understand the facts behind the use of the word "Allah" by non-Muslims and even in Arab countries it is accepted. I heard he is a lawyer by training. As he too is from my home state, Johor, I am well aware of all his [doings] in Kota Tinggi. He was a disgrace as a foreign minister and did more damage during his short term as home minister. If we want to shine as a country, we should first remove such creatures from the political landscape.

msian_tux_lover Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 12.37PM

To start with I would prefer to call them the ruling regime rather than government. In Malay, the word "government" is translated as "kerajaan". I would not like to sully the good names of Their Majesties by calling this collection of [stooges] and racists a government.

M.K. Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 1.00PM

Very well said! In the wake of the present controversy over the use of the word "Allah", the federal government should put a temporary ban on our Negaraku, where the word "Tuhan" appears. Similarly, the Johor government should do the same with their state anthem where the word "Allah" appears!

AainaA Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 1.20PM

Malaysians are advised to read the Quran al Karim in reference to this recent insolence in Surah 32, Verse 15.

Reality is one (Ahad); owing to illusion, it appears to be [with] multiple attributes and changes. It always remains unchanged. Allah tabaraka wa taala is not limited to a particular sect – as universal as Islam ad-din is, more so is the One who brought the universe into being.

Freedom Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 1.21PM

Holding any government accountable ... is critical for a dynamic and progressive Malaysia. [...]

Lainie Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 1.35PM

Well, before 1Malaysia can be real, Najib and the party he leads need to go.

Cheah Sing Hwa Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 1.40PM

Well written, and agreed.

Nicholas Aw Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 1.43PM

A bold and daring write-up Jacqueline. I admire you for your guts in putting your views across. You hit the nail right on the head.

It is indeed sad but true that the use of the word 'Allah', which should have been a non-issue, has become the top news both locally and internationally. Rightly so that the BN/Umno government is solely to be blamed.

We see with each passing day how non-Muslims have been "persecuted" by a lot of silly conditions imposed on them in wanting to practise their faith. The government says "you can build houses of worship but they must operate from shop houses, the structures must not be higher than a mosque", and many other unreasonable conditions ... What the government is doing is like allowing non-Muslims to cross the river to get to the other side, but you cannot ride on the boat that takes you across.

All religions teach us to practise good values. Unfortunately, some of their followers do not practise what they preach and resort to whatever it takes to defend their faith, even to the extent of 'jihad'. Thanks to the BN/Umno for kickstarting the problem!

lkl Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 1.45PM

Yes, I too bet that "dialogue" means non-Muslims must succumb to Malay [Malaysians] or risk being accused of causing greater social unrest by not being sensitive to Muslims. I won't waste time requesting a public forum or what-not from this government. What the BN needs is a kick in the butt, and we need to usher in a government that will educate Malay Muslim [Malaysians] how to earn respect the right way.

Om Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 1.48PM

Well written, JAS!

Jayenjr Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 1.50PM

The "protesters" in the above photo look more like hired thugs than the kind of guys who pray five times a day...?

What would I like to see happen so that I might believe Najib's 1Malaysia is for real?

Well, for any initiative to be successful, it must begin with credibility and integrity on the part of the driver/initiator.

Does Najib inspire these traits? Let's gauge that by looking at some of the tangible events that have taken place just before/since he assumed post as PM.

1. Altantuya
2. Perak grab
3. Teoh Beng Hock death
4. Theft of jet engine
5. Alleged RM600k illegal fund transfer to wife
6. Planned grab of Sgor
7. Drop in Transparency Index
8. Khir Toyo mansion
9. Forcing Petronas to accept Omar Mustapha's appointment
10. Tutup fail on VK lingam
11. Flip flop on RPGT
12. Support for corrupt by-election candidates
13. No action on convicted money politic UMNO candidates - Khairy & Ali Rustam
14. Drop in FDI
15. Increased migration out of Msians
16. Continue to allow BTN/Utusan to ber-maharajalela
17. Re-appoint an under-performing IGP.
18. PKFZ (still no action on the biggies?)
19. Bala's re-appearance
20. Ambiguous 1 Malaysia
21. Awarding of prime land to Naza for pittance.

Wow.

21 tangible events and practically all of this in less than 12 months of being in office!!

On the contrary, do any of us feel an extra RM1 in our pockets since Najib announced his stimulus package? If anything, money is leaving our shores. See http://www.asiasentinel.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2234&Itemid=229

Today, after the attack on our churches, Najib looks as lost as Badawi did when he was PM.

1Malaysia? Najib ?

Whaddya think?

midniteblues Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 2.12PM

Why only ban the Herald from publishing the word ["Allah"]? Why not ban the internet entirely in Malaysia? Would not the Malays be confused if they stumbled across Christian or Sikh websites using the word? Are the Malays so weak in their faith that they need the government to protect them all the time?

H Lee Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 2.15PM

This, Surin, has got to be one of the most logical, clear and succinctly written articles on this whole issue that I've read thus far. Good job.

Marie Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 2.16PM

Excellent piece Jacqueline! Couldn't have described it better myself. Agree with you 100%. There should be religious seminars providing education to the Muslims so they are more aware of their own history and more understanding of other races and religions. It's a pity that they were made to believe that everyone else to going to hell besides themselves. However, it's hardly their fault and they react in the only way they know how.

Perhaps the name change might not be immediate, but the government should slowly wean Malaysian Muslims to start accepting the fact that Allah was a NOUN used by everyone in the Middle East way before Islam was founded.

Whether or not non-Muslims chant it out loud on the streets is a different matter, but at least the Herald can use it and it's not like Muslims will pick up and read the Herald anyway! I'm Catholic and I don't even read it, much less those from other religions!

MXV Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 2.27PM

"If Najib's administration is really sincere about 1Malaysia, I would like to see the government host public forums and seminars for Muslims who may be confused about the word "Allah"."

Well said!

Vinod Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 2.31PM

I blame not the BN government for this. I blame the morons who keep voting them to power again and again. I also blame those who are not bothered to register as voters and exercise their votes wisely.

Krishna M Singh Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 2.35PM

Bravo Jacqueline! You are my kind of gal! However, you will have to be taken into protective custody for your own good. You truth will hurt many confused and shallow minds. There is no need to hold forums for the Muslims. They can repeat at every Friday prayers that Allah predates Islam until all the confused minds know what it means.

cynical malaysian Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 2.50PM

Hear! Hear!!

daniel Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 3.00PM

A sacred name/word is not sacred if it can be used for anything by anyone.

For the devoted monotheist, the only endgame is Armageddon. The faithful goes to heaven, the faithless goes to hell.

When the time comes, you want to be able to face your maker and know that you did everything possible to protect, spread His gospel, and punish those who insulted His name. All the holy books have angry God stories and tales of wars. When this great war is finally over, there is a promise of a total victory, no compromises. All the wicked will rot. All those who followed the wrong path shall be damned. Heaven would be hell if everyone gets to join the party.

The fate of the nation-state or race is actually insignificant when the really big picture is taken into account.

In religious terms, the point that the word 'Allah' is used by others, or when and where it originates is not as important as how it should be used.

Religion operates by limiting and ordering what [humans] can or cannot do/say/think...only then could there be a sense of direction or a right/wrong.

There will be no closure to this matter as the two religions have already decided that in the end, victory is a matter of faith.

Why are the secularists and humanists amongst us being dragged into this madness?

The histories of nation-states are just one-liners compared to the tragi-comedic story [humans] have had with their God(s).

wan zaharizan Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 3.12PM

It was never banned outright, it was gazetted as a minor law in December 1986. It is a peraturan or procedural right which could be rescinded or followed by the minister concerned, thus up to 2008 this 'peraturan' was not followed until 2008. From 1986 it was a cold war but although verbally the government had no objection yet this peraturan was never officially rescinded. It was to satisfy the Malay [Malaysian] hawks as you say - no more discussion - which to me is the right move. We should return to the old status quo.

bontakun Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 3.13PM

Irregardless of whether Umno is involved or not, Najib must take responsibility for the church attacks. He's our prime minister. Anything that happens on his watch is HIS responsibility. That he refuses to accept any at all speaks much about his character.

John Lam Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 3.34PM

A well written article. The government makes Malaysian Muslims appear to be the world's most gullible Muslims whose faith are weak and would be shaken to their core by the mere use of the word "Allah" by other faiths.

By comparison, the faith of Muslims in other Muslim majority nations seem to be fundamentally stronger and they are able to differentiate between the "Allah" in the Qur'an and the "Allah" in the Holy Bible unlike their brethren in Malaysia.

How can then BN's Umno politicians and Muslim NGOs claim that Muslims are being suppressed and threatened, when the home minister, who issues and signs orders to ban publications and order detentions has always been from Umno, and the police that wield guns and cannons have always been dominated by Malays?

Have the non-Muslims of this country ever been in any position to threaten Islam and its adherents? The answer is a resounding no.

mike Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 3.37PM

It's really pitiful for the Christians. It's like you have been calling your father 'Abba' through your entire life and by your forefathers and suddenly someone uses a strong arm and comes on to you and says, "You can no longer call your father 'Abba' because it's exclusive only for our father, call him some other name instead..." This is very selfish and inhuman to a people that is peace loving and has not done any harm to anyone.

Raja Hanim Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 3.39PM

Jacqueline, thats the way. Tell it like it is.

onesoul Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 3.42PM

'Do not accept anything based upon mere reports,

traditions or hearsay,

Nor upon the authority of religious texts,

Nor upon mere reasons and arguments,

Nor upon one's own inference,

Nor upon anything which appears to be true,

Nor upon one's own speculative opinion,

Nor upon another's seeming ability,

Nor upon the consideration:

'This is our Teacher.'

'But, when you know for yourselves the certain things are unwholesome and bad: tending to harm yourself of others, reject them.

'And when you know for yourselves that certain things are wholesome and good: conducive to the spiritual welfare of yourself as well as others, accept and follow them.'

JK Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 4.31PM

Yes, it's time BN stop denying that they didn't have anything to do with this.

Edward S Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 4.32PM

First and foremost Umno should ban of the internet. If anything that can truly confuse the Malay Muslims in this country it surely will be the use of the internet. The internet was invented by the Satanic West and can be seen as a tool of the West to confuse the Muslims.

You can't possibly ban the Bible from using the word "Allah" altogether. In the internet version of the Malay language Bible Umno will not able to enforce such stupid and ridiculous rulings. The internet is 100% uncensored. Everyone knows just how uncensored the internet is.

By the same logic of keeping Malay Muslims from being confused then all Malay Muslims in Malaysia should be not be allowed to use the internet. We all know that the real reason Umno is going ahead to appeal is that it is hoping all the Malay Muslims from the opposition parties will support Umno as their champion. It is hoping PAS will unite with Umno. This isn't going to work. PAS and my many Muslims friends are sick of [Umno], headed by [...] Najib. We Malaysians will not accept religious extremism of any kind from any religion in Malaysia. We will not be intimidated by religious extremism.

azali zain Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 4.40PM

Surah 112: AL - IKHLAS

In the name of Allah, the Compassionate, the Merciful.

Say : He is Allah the One and Only,

Allah is the Self-Sufficient (independent of all, while all depend on Him). He begets not, nor is He the begotten (he has no child, nor is He a child of any one). And there is none comparable to Him.

This is the theological teachinng to differentiate Allah in Islam and Allah mentioned in any other religions. This surah has been memorised by almost 99.99% Muslims since the early ages of 4-5-6 years old. So by saying that the use of the word Allah in other faiths will confused them is pure bluff and nonsence. This is clearly the work of a demon trying to save itself from extinction.

The tolerence aptitudes of Muslims toward other religions was clearly defined in the following Surah:

SURAH 109 : AL - KAFIRUN

In the name of Allah, the Compassionte, the Merciful.

Say : O unbelievers, I worship not that whom you worship, nor will you worship that whom I worship. I shall never worship those detities whom you worship, nor will you ever worship Allah, whom I worship, to you be your religion, and to me mine.

The massage is clear for Muslims as regard to the practices of other faiths and by saying that Islam in Malaysia is under threat is a blatant lie with ulterior motives.

Vincenzo Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 4.51PM

1. If only Najib was put on trial [...] for the murder of Altantunya.
2. The IGP put on trial for all the SDs against him.
3. The constitution stated clearly [equality for] all races and not as per the current vagueness of having an Indian or Indonesian Muslim later morph to become a Malay.
4. A former premier trialed and jailed for racism and religous bigotry.
5. A ban to keep religion out of politics. Never should the twains meet.

Will number 3 and 5 ever happen, even by any other political party? Dream on.

Groundnuts Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 5.23PM

The BN or Umno more appropriately should reflect back on their action and stand. If they are sincere which I doubt to my last cent, they should respect all other religions and races and never commit to one race or religion alone. Look at the infrastructure within the government, how many other races can you see in a typical government department? Are they speaking for real or simply fooling their own race too by their pretentious looks of sympathy? Muslim or non-Muslim, come the next general election, they will know that their hoodwinking days are over. In the meanime, they should curb the growth of terrorism from being embedded into the minds of the people in their exploitation of this "Allah" issue. God save Malaysia and its people.

Freedom Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 5.24PM

Agree with your post Robert, 12 Jan. Malay [Malaysians] are smarter today. With the different activist platforms that they can engage in to speak for what is best for Malaysia today and what is needed to be done now, more Malay [Malaysians] have restored their dignity to no end. They suddenly sound [like] more intelligent, thinking Malay [Malaysians] with hearts. I get goose-bumps writing this, seeing more Malay [Malaysians], standing by the windows, heads outside shouting in unison "we are not taking it any more". We want change. Either you do it now or we replace you with someone else who can. It's your call, PM.

EL Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 5.30PM

Jacqueline, you make us proud to be Malaysian! Your article gives us the courage and reason to resist fascism and racial bigotry. I have a dream that one day, Malaysians regardless of their color, race and religion will walk free hand in hand. They will not be judged by the color of their skin or religion but by the content of their character! Freedom to choose Who (Allah/Tuhan) and what we believe!

krish Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 5.34PM

I have been a fence-sitter for many years, not been political and taking a neutral stance all these years. After seeing how the BN government especially Umno and its mouthpiece Utusan Malaysia went about inciting Muslims and Malays in the country on the issue of Allahm I have decided that it's time I stand up. I will make sure not only my vote but all my family members and friends votes go to the party that can protect minority rights.

OneMsia Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 5.41PM

Whatever it is, I will never agree. Yes, the use of the word "Allah" is not only for Muslims. As we live in Malaysia, a multiracial and multi-religious country, such an issue will not be taken for granted by the Muslims. It may cause confusion among the Muslims [...].

These people just want Malaysia to be in chaos by testing Muslim patience by bringing up these sensitive issues. Does it make any difference if they don't use the word "Allah"?? It's a shame when a Muslim doesn't support and stand for their own religion and let it be made fun of by other religions. Yes, non-Muslims in Malaysia have started doing it through their blogs, Facebook and daily speech. They are laughing at the Muslims because they are not in our shoes.

===================================================
@OneMsia

You are, of course, entitled to disagree with the use of "Allah" by non-Muslims. But just because you are entitled to disagree doesn't mean you have the right to impose your decision on others. Unless Malaysian Muslims have copyright over "Allah" -- and neither you nor other Muslims do -- your opinion cannot be imposed on others.

Does it make a difference if non-Muslims can no longer use "Allah"? Why don't you try asking Muslims that question? Would it affect THEM if they could no longer use the word because a Christian majority imposed that on them? Since "Allah" was historically used by Christians, Sikhs and Muslims in Malaysia, why should Christians and Sikhs have to give up their right because SOME Muslims are prone to confusion. Why should others be held ransom by the ignorance of some Muslims? Why do non-Muslims have to give up their legitimate right to use the word just because some Muslims are afraid of God-knows-what?

You think Muslim patience is being tested? How about considering how non-Muslims feel? It's non-Muslims' rights which are being unfairly taken away from them, and you actually think it is Muslim patience which is being tested?

Jacqueline Ann Surin

eric Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 5.46PM

When a few extremists protest in favor of Malay [Malaysian] rights, the ludicrous Malaysian media extrapolates it as if the entire Malay [Malaysian population] is with them. The non-Muslims have been very civilized and this has been abused by the perpetrating lowlife extremists whose claims are ridiculous and laughable.

cv Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 5.49PM

The whole Allah issue is a diversion tactic deployed by Umno to sway the public's attention from their major scandals and corruptions:

PKFZ, jet engine thefts, the Alantuya murder, TBH murder, submarine scams, BTN racism etc. It is only the rakyat who are too dumb to be preoccupied by this petty Allah copyrights issue. Umno is clearly committing blasphemy by claiming Allah as God as some sort of trophy!

eric Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 5.49PM

Brilliantly written - Umno seems like they have a hidden agenda to somehow make this country a minimum 80% Muslim landscape and will do whatever they can. Bring in Muslims, discourage non-Muslims to procreate, give citizenship to Muslim settlers, second class its non-Muslim populace and the list goes on. Just ask the non-Muslims.

anak malaysia Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 5.50PM

1Malaysia is just a WORD. I never believe it because the actions are different from the WORD. That is [the] BN way of doing things. Always says this and that but the ACTION is totally different.

Goh Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 6.11PM

This government of thieves, operating in a culture of corruption. will not listen to anyone. Its only interest is power. Pure and simple. The rest is nothing more than a public relations exercise.

ash Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 6.16PM

It is said, and truly so, humans are civilised animals. But time and again it is proved that humans are more cruel, greedy and selfish than the carnivorous.

Individuals fight over petty jealousies, lust, land, wealth and women, but that is God-given negativity to individuals. It is [human-constructed] religions that institutionalise such hatred, pettiness and lust.

No religions are Godly, they are all [human-constructed] and spread hatred (disguised as benevolence - sweetened speeches and verses but always end up with us being superior and the only way to go to heaven, the rest will go to hell - and even make this earth a hell).

People of the world, wake up, and discard all so-called superior religions - Islam, Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism and so on. Just love your neigbours, all humans and even animals, flora and fauna. Be kind to all and leave footprints behind which generations to follow will be proud to talk about and not hate us for spreading hate in the name of all fake religions, which in any case are big businesses - Allah or Lord, immaterial to me. They are businesses - a rose called with whatever name does not stop smelling good.

Stop the nonsense NOW!

Citizens of the world wake up.

B-Raw Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 6.48PM

You spewed so many shrill remarks and countless hyperbole. If Malaysia was a fascist state, shouldn't you be in jail by now for speaking [up]? And what about the Chinese-dominated state to the south?

Gopal Raj Kumar has written a good repartee to all the above mentioned questions you asked. But then again, when one is riding the high horse, it's hard to see the ground. [...]

So, it's all the fault of Umno-Nazi, huh? Your political ideology aside, what happened to the 200,000 people on Facebook alone rejecting the usage of Allah [by non-Muslims]? What about their voices? Don't they have the right and space to speak their minds or people like you [find] their voices unimportant to the whole debate?

And, what about the liberals in Europe, are they fascist, too for rejecting the term "Allah" from being used by Catholics? http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/20279326/

"A survey in the Netherlands' biggest-selling newspaper De Telegraaf on Wednesday found 92 percent of the more than 4,000 people polled disagreed with the bishop's view, which also drew ridicule.

"Sure. Let's call God 'Allah'. Let's then call a church a mosque and pray five times a day. Ramadan sounds like fun," Welmoet Koppenhol wrote in a letter to the newspaper.

kahseng Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 7.04PM

I dedicate this song to UMNO (never thought I'd do such a thing):

"We didn't start the fire," by Billy Joel.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jR-A4QFHZBA&feature=fvst
or http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=we+didn't+start+the+fire

The opposite of fascism is libertarianism. Libertarianism is often misunderstood as selfish and cold-hearted. But asking the government to be good means giving it more power (to tax, to control, to centralize information). And if there ever is a slippery slope, giving government power is the only slippery slope to fascism.

While we are alert to the idea of danger from government, here are two pieces on why government fails its final and core responsibility: protecting us.

Can the Government Keep Us Safe?
http://www.lewrockwell.com/napolitano/napolitano13.1.html

Does the State Protect Us?
http://mises.org/daily/3947

khalid Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 7.16PM

A confident Muslim would not be mistake his/her Allah for another. Here's a link that provides the characteristics of a confident Muslim:

http://rantingsbymm.blogspot.com/2010/01/confident-people-do-not-get-confused.html

Habib RAK Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 7.51PM

Hi Jacqueline, I second the observation that what is lacking is education. The Umno/BN government prefers to keep the Muslims in Malaysia ignorant and from learning the richness of the Quran and the right path of Islam. The only reason they do this is to safeguard their selfish position. Apart from your valid argument that the word Allah predates Islam, there is even spiritual demand within Islam that all (Muslims and non-Muslims) be allowed to call the maker Allah. In fact they are encouraged to do so. Unfortunately, the depth of this understanding and learning is not permitted openly in Malaysia. Anyway, on balance, the so-called men of the cloth of both sides (Islam and Christianity) are equally adamant of their positions. You may be aware that the issue of Allah was also opposed by fellow Christian priests when it was suggested that Christians refer to god as Allah in the Netherlands. You may read this at this link http://www.christianpost.com/article/20070823/is-calling-the-christian-god-allah-wrong/index.html

All the same, for me, there is only one God and that is ALLAH. And everyone is welcome to call Allah. The more the merrier. After all, as Muslims we refer to Allah as the Rabl Alamin (the God of all the universe). So it makes no sense to say a non-Muslim is not a creation of Allah. See what I mean? Cheers.

Galloway Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 8.43PM

The European Christian Missionaries who studied Christianity in the Middle East were the first to introduce the word "ALLAH" to Sabah and Sarawak.

R-X Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 9.08PM

Well what do you know. Here's the best article I've stumbled upon since this issue started to arise. It's not the goverment who is responsible for this but the person in charge of the goverment.

This issue started just because Umno wanted to slowly Islamise this country. Now they want to ban certain words from being used by other religions or races, after this maybe they would ban the building of churches or temples, then they would ban other religions in Malaysia. This issue is just the kickstart, many more issues will arise sooner or later if other minority groups, races or religions do not take action.

I've never seen the word Allah [being] patented by Muslims, have you? This is nothing more than political issue.

Anthony Chow Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 9.33PM

I think it's about time the Government organise religious forums and educate the Muslims in our country on the actual history of our religions and not make it a racial problem. It seems real sad that many Muslims out there still think that each of us has a different GOD, when all actually pray to the same. Wake up and realise, move forward so that the tribes of Hishmael/Ismail and Isaac/Ishak may unite and fullfill ALLAH's covenant with Abraham/Ibrahim.

language Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 9.58PM

Solve the problem by "FORCING" the Muslims here take up Arabic, the original language of the Quran, and let the other non-Muslims learn their religion through non-original, translated, or perhaps twisted languages.

Ernesto Newell Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 10.29PM

Very well written piece that I hope the PM will get to read and learn something from, instead of coming out with all the gibberish about not being responsible. If the responsible minister had brains instead of kidneys in his head, this matter would not have arisen at all. But as you have correctly articulated, the BN government wants to keep the Muslim faithfuls ignorant and pliant to their mischievous intents. I hope they come to their senses soon!

abingkasan Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 11.05PM

To me, Allah is God. I was educated in Bahasa Malaysia. From young, I was taught that Allah is God. I went to church liturgies or services conducted in Bahasa Malaysia. And I had always prayed to Allah Bapa. I remembered composing hymns with the word Allah all over them. And the choir that I trained emerged champions in a few district- and state-level church competitions. And I will forever use Allah in my personal life.

justme Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 11.17PM

This Umno government will stop at nothing to remain in power. In the latest news, they have managed to drag the Selangor Sultan to support them. For those who still harbour any hope for 1Malaysia, please read thoughtsintangents.blogspot.com - the article entitled "Torched churches...reaping what is sown". This son of Sanusi Junid's blog reflects the true 1Malaysia that Umno is advocating.

awangkassim Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 11.33PM

Politics should be set aside. These are dangerous times, where the concern is about safety and security for all people in Malaysia. Religion is sensitive and it can trigger a "huge firebomb" among the people.The government is fiddling with sentiments, which can explode violently. Malaysia is too beautiful to burn!

Malaysian malu Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 11.34PM

[How is the politician who] loved to bathe his keris with Chinese blood [different from] the Gestapo of Hitler?

Soon, it will be like living in Germany with selective executions.

What do you expect from the person in charge who lost two known jet engines while under his watch as Defence Minister. Now, Malaysians are losing Malaysia under his watch!

1Malaysia? Hahahaha. More like, Oh! NoMalaysia.

Matt Posted: 12 Jan 10 : 11.58PM

The PM and HM say that they cannot control the acts of church attacks by the fanatics who are still living in the country. It means two things: (1) they are too weak to take action and (2) they are saying civil commotion is not their responsibility. Who is running the government now? Trouble makers and hooligans? Time to wake up!

tiger Posted: 13 Jan 10 : 12.03AM

These Umno politicians' remarks not only incite racial and religious hatred but also create political and economic chaos and racial divide in this country. The [...] thing is Najib and gang did nothing to stop these [...] fanatics from terrorising the church. We peace-loving Malaysians cannot allow such a beautiful country to be run and ruined by IDIOTS and also a new breeding ground for 'terrorists'. What it takes for EVIL to triumph is for GOOD men to do nothing. GE13 people power!

klee Posted: 13 Jan 10 : 12.06AM

I am a freethinker and I have no God but I plan to go to church this coming Sunday to give them my moral support. I went to church twice in my sophomore year in university, the coming Sunday will be the third time after 12 years.

klee Posted: 13 Jan 10 : 12.23AM

Agree with Dr Adrian Wong: "Greedy and corrupt politicians that do not seem to mind tearing this country apart, as long as it keeps them in power." 45 years ago they kicked Singapore out because of the prospect that the PAP might rule Malaysia.

Anonymous Coward Posted: 13 Jan 10 : 2.45AM

I find it interesting that all of a sudden Jawi makes an appearance when it's been relegated to the museums for novelty and those curious enough to seek it.

mycuntree Posted: 13 Jan 10 : 2.49AM

You are absolutely right. The BN government in general, and Umno in particular is purely responsible for this assault on the Christian faith. That we all know. It's a wonder of the BN/Umno mentality that they don't.

It is time to save this country by overthrowing the current government at the earliest opportunity, and eventually put those responsible for this Malaysian debacle by putting them against the wall.

Anak Kampong Posted: 13 Jan 10 : 4.03AM

Actually Umno Malay [Malaysians] do not hate or [want to] ban the use of the word Allah only, but [it looks like they] intend to abolish other religions in Malaysia. [Apparently] what they want is for all Malaysians to be converted to Islam.

Actually they hate Israel, but because they could do nothing to Israel, that's why they punish Christians by banning the Bible and so forth.

Malays in Malaysia, particularly Umno members, misunderstand Christian followers in Malaysia. They might have thought that Malaysian Christians support Israel against Palestine - no no at all. We know that Palestine and Israel and also the other Arab countries are from the same tribes. They were from Abraham.

Fooji Posted: 13 Jan 10 : 4.56AM

As much as I would like to agree with you in condemning the almost imperial Umno, I wonder how many of those in power, policy makers and community leaders, will share your thoughts on this. There was never a 1Malaysia. Najib is just talking cock.

lee wee tak Posted: 13 Jan 10 : 7.31AM

I agree with Najib's assertion that Umno is not responsible for the church bombing because I hold the BN administration responsible.

Ok, they may not be the ones actually committing the act but they are at least responsible for the environment and sequence of events

Look at the decades of writings in Utusan Malaysia and indoctrination by BTN. There is a huge percentage of emphasizing on differences and perceived threats rather than notes on accommodation and harmony. Why create this siege mentality?

The Badawi administration prohibited [the formation of an] inter-faith council, [which is now] belatedly put up as a suggestion.

For an administration that is so powerful - backed by the police, armed forces, ISA, OSA, Printing Presses Act, Sedition Act - that has imprisoned/detained political opponents, armed terrorist, news reporters, candle-holders, coffee drinkers/cyclists etc., suddenly it went limp and clueless because someone wanted to stage a protest and the almighty administration worried about some emotion that got out of hand.

Perpetrators of mischief will be bolder if they know reprisal or punishment is not forthcoming.

The subsequent inaction and flip-flopping by PDRM directly under the control of the BN administration is a fundamental statement about the degree of interest the BN administration has in preventing the situation from deteriorating.

The poor attempt by the Home Minister to explain to the foreign and more enlightened representatives from the various embassies was embarrassing. Hishammuddin said M'sia is different (apples to apples, oranges to oranges) but did not adequately explain how Malaysia is different and to whom Malaysia can be compared with. M'sia too unique? Whatever Malaysia has become is a direct result of 50++ years of the BN's administration and stupid voters!

aaw Posted: 13 Jan 10 : 7.56AM

I would think that there would be mass protests internationally against the church if this was REALLY an Islamic issue? Was there any? Obviously not.

majuil Posted: 13 Jan 10 : 10.52AM

I agree with you about the present goverment's attitude but for the use of the word ALLAH the Christian Council of Malaysia should take note that in the Bible it teaches us to live in harmony and peace with others. Why bother so much about the words since we can use others words? Are we nearer to God if we use the word Allah in churches rather than the word TUHAN? I don't think so. Are we really ready to give up the harmony and future of our faithful just because of this word? For instance, your father asks you and your brother to choose his two cars - a Proton Saga or a Toyota Vios. I'm sure both of you will choose to take the Vios and neither of you will want to give it up because then both of you will be hurt and most of all your father. No more harmony and happiness in the house where we've been living for so many years. Let's live in PEACE. Shalom.

Dudley Posted: 13 Jan 10 : 12.38PM

Well said, kudos.

Lim Swee Bin Posted: 13 Jan 10 : 4.44PM

To believe in Najib's 1Malaysia, one simple measure - reconstruction, to make ALL Malaysians EQUAL. The US did that - to place African Americans on par with whites. The civil rights movement has culminated with Obama as US President.

The time has come to recognize all of us who have stayed on in this land - the land we were born to and the land we chose not to leave. We are all Malaysians. Only with equality, can true fraternity come.

khairul fairul Posted: 13 Jan 10 : 5.51PM

On what ground do you compare BN (Umno) to the Nazis? I'm confused.

Pilgrim Posted: 13 Jan 10 : 10.27PM

The Home Minister should [...] release the 15,000 copies of Al-Kitab.

M.O.T.U Posted: 14 Jan 10 : 12.11AM

"Meaningful dialogue can only happen when all parties to the dialogue are treated as equals."

With religion, there can be no equals. My god will always be better than your god and for not worshiping my god you will go to hell. How can there ever be equality? If all are equal, then it would not have mattered which faith you profess, and heaven's door would be open to all those who are deserving, as opposed to it being exclusively reserved to those belonging only to a particular faith. How would you treat other religions equally when your own preaches hell for those not of your own religion? [...]

Wong CS Posted: 14 Jan 10 : 11.47AM

Just for some balance, I'd like to see the Catholics here publicly condemn the Vatican for attempting to copyright anything to do with the Pope (http://www.theregister.co.uk/2009/12/21/vatican_copyright/).

Personally, I disagree with the restrictions on the usage of the word Allah, but I'd like to see if all these self-righteous outpouring is a result of unbiased support of free speech rights and constitutional law or just selfish protection of "what I want to do/say".

Benjamin Skye Posted: 14 Jan 10 : 2.48PM

I agree. Like I have been saying to my friends, "It is hypocrisy for the government to condemn the acts of violence whilst at the same time advocate the very cause of the acts of terror."

I found this article to be very educated and enlightening. Thoroughly enjoyed the read. Good job. I guess all I can say is, there may be a day where all we can do is to go looking for that "1Malaysia" somewhere else. Voting with our feet may perhaps be the most democratic choice we have left given the current state of affairs.

Freedom Posted: 14 Jan 10 : 5.28PM

Re: Azali zain, 12/1/10. "Surah 112: AL - IKHLAS In the name of Allah, the Compassionate, the Merciful, etc." In a few simple and clear lines from you, you have made more sense than all the political propaganda and citizen control that I have heard for decades in the name of your religon. It devalues your (or any other) religion and your faith when it is not sincere. When more Malay Malaysians wake up and feel like you do, you will find more Malay Malaysians will have immense pride and have a true sense of purpose in their life, true nation-building with compassion. You can then go out into the world, like many Chinese Malaysians have done for decades now, and deal with the world with the greatest confidence, and as an equal to any other race. Otherwise, the majority of inward-looking Malay Malaysians' mentality will set them back decades longer while others move leaps and bounds in the wider "no free lunch" world. If you don't want more of the same, have faith, make the switch for your own children and MY sake.

Copperhead Joe Posted: 15 Jan 10 : 3.37AM

Since the March 8 2008 tsunami that eroded the hegemony of BN, they have been fighting a rear-guard action to stay alive in the political game. Actually the real perpetrators in recent shenanigans cannot be placed squarely on BN which comprises other parties. The true villain of the piece is mainly Umno.

The Umno hardliners desperately want to maintain their dictatorial regime (not government) and continue to enjoy the "booty" of the land and cover up their misdeeds (read corruption). Thus, they use every trick they can think of to stir up sentiments.

They have a few tricks up their sleeve but they never reckoned that the Internet has empowered the general public to have access to information which otherwise would have been buried and spiked by their sycophants [...]. And yet they have the gall to come out with statements that the Internet is full of lies and misinformation about them and their misdeeds.

True, not all info should be believed without some kind of qualification but generally intelligent readers with common sense and a rational mind know how to separate the wheat from the chaff.

By their very action, they are heading down the road of fascism but would they admit to it? We'll be in deep trouble if they are allowed to be re-elected again in the next GE. A happy and prosperous Malaysia will depend on those who have yet to wake up and face the reality that a better future for them is to reject this regime.

Wan Adli Posted: 15 Jan 10 : 4.15AM

Dear Malaysian Christian neighbour,

You are correct. Indeed, true believers have been calling the One Real-True God, the Creator, as Allah since before Prophet Jesus or Moses, maybe since Prophet Abraham or even since Prophet Adam, the first man.

I am very happy you want to claim Allah for all of us. But, it seems as if you only would like to name your Trinity God as Allah. Maybe you believe that Allah the Father had incarnated into Allah the Son some time ago in human history. But sir/madam, Allah the Real-True God never did that. You may refute all true believers in human history, but sir/madam, when the Judgement Day comes, they are going to declare the same thing: Allah the Real-True God never incarnated into Allah the Son.

Therefore sir, let's call our Real-True Creator as Allah. Let's worship Allah alone. Let us ask Allah all of His grace and goodness in this life and in the afterlife. Let's ask Allah salvation from the Hellfire. Let's ask Allah the joy of His paradise. Let us believe in all of His messengers, and all of His authentic revealed scriptures. Let us strive in goodness in carrying out His commandments, and staying away from His prohibitions. Let us avoid drinking, betting, adultery, and usury.

In relation to this, sir/madam I beg you, please, stop assuming that Allah had incarnated into human form. Please, stop associating partners with Allah. Please, stop [professing] the divinity of Prophet Jesus. Please, stop asking salvation from Prophet Jesus. He was only a human being like Prophet Adam, Abraham, and Moses before him, and like Prophet Muhammad after him and like us all now. He was only a man, so please stop putting the burden of forgiveness and salvation on his shoulder. He never can do that.

Even if you still doubt the truth of Prophet Muhammad, it is okay. Keep contemplating on that. But please uphold the truth of Allah as the only Creator, the Only Real-True God. There is no deity except Allah. Also, please uphold the human nature and the prophethood of Jesus, Moses, Abraham and other prophets. As well, please uphold the law of the authentic scripture of Prophet Jesus and Moses.

So sir/madam, let's come together within a common term and equal word: there is no God save Allah. However sir/madam, if you persist with the Trinity of Allah and divinity of Jesus, please, bear witness in front of Allah when the Judgement Day comes, that we your Muslim neighbours submit ourselves and believe in the Oneness of Allah, the truth of all of His messengers and scriptures, and the certainty of the Judgement Day. Please sir/madam, bear witness to this.

Thank you.

Surin Posted: 15 Jan 10 : 7.23AM

Would the Muslims be ready to stop publishing the names of the bible prophets such as Nuh, Musa, Ibrahim and Isa? These Jewish prophets predate Islam and should not be used in the Muslim circles at all. Leave the Christians and Jews to their prophets and God, and they will leave you and your religion alone.

Veronica Shunmugam Posted: 15 Jan 10 : 9.53AM

Scrap the Biro Tata Negara and the like. Making and keeping friendships with people from different backgrounds comes with enough minefields as it is.

If I wasn't Hindu but had a good Hindu friend, I would be less likely to hold up in public the bloodied head of a white cow to express my anger, wouldn't I?

If I wasn't Christian or Sikh but had dear friends of these faiths, I would be less likely to attack their houses of worship, right?

And, yeah, I agree with H Lee: "This, Surin, has got to be one of the most logical, clear and succinctly written articles on this whole issue that I've read thus far."

Pipe Posted: 15 Jan 10 : 11.33AM

With so much interests and conversations about God, it is an opportune time for Christians to engage with and explain to non-Christians friends:

(1) The reasons for the similarity between Christianity, Islam and Judaism. They are Abrahamic religions and share a common origin — believe in Almighty God, God the Creator, and there is only one God.

(2) All other religions are not Abrahamic religions.

(3) Christians believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Saviour that God has sent to save sinners.

(4) The main distinguishing feature of Christianity is grace, defined as "unmerited favour", i.e. a benefit (to be Heaven one day to live with God forever and ever) that is given freely to anyone who believes in Jesus ... No other religion offers grace.

Allan Posted: 15 Jan 10 : 2.08PM

The 1986 government, huh? Was this the same BN government that our current pseudo-PM-in-waiting Anwar was part of?

Augie Posted: 15 Jan 10 : 5.26PM

If they can, BN will definitely want Malaysian Muslims to be ignorant of rights of the non-Muslims and deny them the knowledge of historical facts and constitutional rights, by raising sensitive and religious topics to steer them adrift and emotionally entrap them in BN's grasp. It's the only way for them to retain and hold on to the power that they are losing grip of. Day by day, they are becoming a government that has outlasted their existence and contribution to the country and its citizens. Gone are the glory days of Tunku [and] what he stood for. We were truly a proud and cherished nation, with members of the other races we could call 'brothers'.

WALTER TAN Posted: 15 Jan 10 : 7.15PM

Jacqueline for prime minister.

keebee Posted: 16 Jan 10 : 4.20PM

Agree totally. Malaysians, stand up. We don't want a government who is taking us backward instead of forward. Shame on those who are responsible for the incitement of violence. Let not those who are responsible for this incitement foget that God is not mocked, a man reaps what he sows.

SABM Posted: 18 Jan 10 : 1.21PM

Dear Khairul Fairul (13 Jan 2010 5.51pm),

In answer to your question 'On what ground do you compare BN (Umno) to the Nazis? I'm confused', please refer …

“We have become a fascist state under BN rule. How so? Well, a state that actively and aggressively promotes racial and religious superiority is no different from the Nazi state that asserted that the Aryans were superior to the Jews. And the systematic use of violence, fear and draconian laws to diminish and suppress the legitimate rights of minority groups can only be described as fascist.”

I have taken the liberty to do a quick translation [...] (fault lies with me for any inaccurate translation).

“Kita telah menjadi negara fascist di bawah pemerintahan BN. Bagaimana begitu? Ya, sebuah negara yang secara aktif dan agresif mempromosikan ketuanan kaum dan agama tidak berbeza daripada negara Nazi yang menegaskan bahawa kaum Aryan lebih unggul daripada kaum Yahudi. Dan penggunaan kekerasan, ketakutan dan undang-undang kejam untuk mengikis dan menindas hak kumpulan minoriti hanya boleh digambarkan sebagai fascist.”

j18 Posted: 22 Jan 10 : 5.17PM

To Non-partisan: What are you afraid of? Come now, your argument that by calling the BN fascist, they then somehow have a right to ignore requests for a dialogue on the issue, reeks of the fear imposed upon the public that is the hallmark of fascist and totalarian rule. The need to control and dominate others does indeed reside in the animalistic nature of humans. But civilized and enlightened people rise above this urge and embrace justice, equality and compassion for all. Only then are they fit to lead.

beetlenutz Posted: 24 Jan 10 : 7.01PM

I am disturbed by the fact that those who press for a ban on the usage of Allah seem to be totally unaware of the material change they are doing to the Kalimah that they profess to protect. The Kalimah stressed the unity and universality of God, and does not ascribe to a group-centric God. Nowhere did the noble Prophet in his dealings with Muslims, people of the Book or even unbelievers did he forbid the usage by them.

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