New Unnecessary to bring Zakir Naik here, says Nazri

Tourism and Culture Minister Nazri Aziz says calling this controversial preacher to make a speech here will certainly attract objections from certain quarters.

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PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia has its own scholars and hence it is unnecessary for a controversial preacher such as Dr Zakir Naik to come to this country and create a mess which the public would have to clean after, said Umno minister Nazri Aziz.

Branding the move to bring Dr Zakir here for talks on religion as “unnecessary”, Nazri said although some who had listened to his speeches had called them “mild”, those from the other religions may disagree.

“It’s all about perception and perception is based on what he has done in the past. I think if you want to talk about religion, then just talk about your own.

“To have a session (where you make) comparisons (with other religions), you are bound to come to the conclusion that your religion is better.

“Besides, is it necessary? Do the Muslims here need to be told that we are on the right track? I don’t think so. And by calling this man to make a speech here will certainly attract objections from certain quarters.”

Speaking to FMT, the tourism and culture minister said the country’s multi-religious landscape meant it should be protected from any act that may create a division.

It’s not about freedom of speech, he added, but what’s most important is the harmony between the different races and religions.

“It is about ensuring that Malaysians are not unnecessarily divided by someone who has no ties whatsoever to Malaysia. He will make a speech and then leave the country.

“And we will be left behind with all the problems that he may have caused. (Considering) what he did in the past, it’s only natural for those of the other religions he had belittled to be concerned that this man is coming here.”

The Mumbai-born preacher’s presence in Malaysia has ruffled some feathers as according to reports, he had angered the Hindu community by insulting their deities and the faith’s vegetarian practices.

The recipient of the Tokoh Maal Hijrah award in 2013 has also been banned from speaking in Canada and the United Kingdom for expressing support for terrorist group Al-Qaeda.