Recently, a proposed guideline for Muslims attending non-Muslim events in Malaysia drew controversy after it was revealed by the Minister of the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar.
Following this, Raub MP Chow Yu Hui shared his opposition to the guidelines in a Parliamentary debate on Wednesday (February 12).
“In the debate, I emphasised that the implementation of such guidelines not only goes against the core spirit of national unity but may also exacerbate the gap between different ethnic groups and religions in Malaysia,” he said in a Facebook post.
However, Kubang Keliang MP Tuan Ibrahim argued against his opposition to the guidelines, stating, “The guidelines are for Muslims. They cannot participate in certain non-Islamic activities. What’s the problem?”.
Raub MP suggests splitting the position into two
Due to this, the Raub MP is now suggesting that the role of ‘Minister of Religious Affairs’ be separated into 2 positions, one for Islamic Affairs and one for non-Islamic Affairs.
He wrote, “I emphasized that states such as Penang, Perak and Negeri Sembilan have already established ‘Exco Hal Ehwal Bukan Islam (non-Islamic Affairs Exco)‘ to better protect the rights of various religious groups. Therefore the Federal Government should learn from this practice and coordinate national religious affairs more systematically.”
“I suggest that the position of ‘Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs)’ be split into 2 independent positions – ‘Minister of Islamic Affairs’ and ‘Minister of non-Islamic Affairs’.”
He added that the ‘Minister of non-Islamic Affairs’ should be held by a non-Muslim leader, someone who is highly respected in society and will handle the affairs of non-Muslim groups.
“This will not only ensure a more equitable management of religious affairs but also promote understanding and integration among various ethnic groups and avoid the marginalisation of any communities,”
“The establishment of a ‘Minister of Islamic Affairs’ and a ‘Minister of non-Islamic Affairs’ will help ensure healthy communication between different faith groups and reduce unnecessary disputes. This move will lay the foundation for our country to build a more inclusive, diverse and harmonious society,” he added.
What do you think about having 2 different religious ministers? Do feel free to share your thoughts in the comment section.
