NGO: Apologise to Muslims for conversion attempt

A Muslim NGO has demanded an apology to all Muslims from those involved in the controversial thanksgiving dinner held at the premises of the Damansara Utama Methodist Church (DUMC).

This is because it is clear from Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah’s decreeyesterday that there indeed were attempts to subvert the faith and beliefs of Muslims at the function, although legal action could not be taken because of a lack of evidence, the NGO said.

In a statement today, Ikatan Muslimin Malaysia (Isma) said it welcomed the sultan’s remarks assuring Muslims that the integrity of their faith was under his watch and care against “the threat of Christianisation”.

“The (issues raised by the event) have caused Muslims to feel concerned that it will become a concern and a threat if not stopped," said Isma president Abdullah Zaik Abdul Rahman.

“His (Highness’) stand, which views Jais’ actions objectively, has shown his concern for this sensitive issue.”

Jais, or the Selangor Islamic Affairs Department, had raided a thanksgiving function on Aug 3 organised by Harapan Komuniti, a welfre group, at the auditorium of the DUMC.

The department claimed to be investigation allegations that Muslims were being subjected to Christian proselytisation. It then conducted a probe on 12 Muslims who had been present that evening.

'View issues holistically'

Isma also called on state religious councils and religious affairs departments nationwide to learn from the incident and “always take proactive measures to see issues holistically".

Rather than treat the 12 as having committed a ‘crime’, Isma said they should be perceived as victims of conversion attempts and counselled so that any confusion or misunderstanding they may have about their faith can be corrected.

This includes taking measures that address the family background, social interactions and problems and other factors that may have made them susceptible to the plans and tactics of Christian evangelists.

In addition to recommending that the staff of Islamic affairs departments be made more aware of their responsibilities in upholding the sanctity of Islam, Isma also urged that the level of the services and operating procedures of these bodies be improved.

“That the organiser of the event was let off (without) any charge should serve as a (lesson).”