PARLIAMENT | A backbencher debating the royal address has proposed that the religious affairs portfolio under the Prime Minister’s Department be divided between Islam and all other religions.
In making the call, Chow Yu Hui (Harapan-Raub) pointed to elected representatives appointed to be in charge of non-Muslim affairs under various state governments.
“State governments such as in Penang, Perak and Negeri Sembilan have long had an appointed exco for non-Muslim affairs.
“So this can be emulated at the federal level to preserve the rights of all people,” he said, adding that the second minister in charge of non-Muslim affairs can be appointed from among leaders of any other religion.
“With the government appointing a minister in charge of Islamic affairs and one in charge of non-Muslim affairs, it would not only ensure a fairer management on issues linked to religion but also strengthen national unity and prevent marginalisation of any groups,” said Chow.
He argued that the two ministers under the Prime Minister’s Department could effectively discuss related issues and prevent “unwanted controversy”.
Unity Ministry’s job
Under the administration, policy matters involving interfaith issues at the federal level fall under the purview of the National Unity Ministry.
On Monday, National Unity Minister Aaron Ago Dagang defended himself against an academic’s call for his ministry to be shut down for alleged poor performance.
This is in the wake of the recent controversy sparked by proposed new guidelines for events involving Muslims held in non-Muslim houses of worship.
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Na’im Mokhtar revealed plans for the new guidelines in a written reply dated Feb 4, but Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim after a cabinet meeting on Feb 7, said such guidelines were not required. - Mkini
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