No change in Pakatan stance on use of 'Allah'

Opposition Leader Anwar Ibrahim has said that, while he respects the views of the PAS Syura Council on the use of ‘Allah’ by non-Muslims, there is no change in Pakatan Rakyat’s stance on the issue.

He said that a reading of PAS president Abdul Hadi Awang's statement can be taken to mean that Islam does not prohibit the use of ‘Allah’ by non-Muslims, but that there is concern over abuse of the word.

"I have read the Syura Council’s statement and that of the PAS president. We support their statements and concerns ... I am bound by the views of Islam in the matter.

"I also acknowledge there is concern over abuse (of the word). Mainstream media reports are directed to create confusion among the Muslim public, with reports of people distributing copies of the (Malay-language) Bible to Muslim (school)children. If this is true, then investigate and charge (those involved)," Anwar said today.

"However, our stand (in Pakatan) is clear. We do not condone the derogation of other religions. We will support and defend the sanctity of Islam and also of other religions, as this is not only required of Muslims, but is also protected by the federal constitution."

[More to follow]