NGO urges equal standard for all faiths in desecration of religious symbols

 

The measure of “offence felt by society” must be applied equally whenever any religion’s sacred symbols are desecrated, not only when the majority feels offended, rights group Pusat Komas said today.

In a statement, the group stressed that a nation built on values and equality demands the same standard of respect for all, regardless of community.

The remarks came amid controversy surrounding a university student who allegedly posted an image on social media showing the Quran being stepped on.

“Such behaviour is deeply offensive, irresponsible, and has no place in a society that values mutual respect and peaceful coexistence,” the group said.

Previously, the group had also condemned Muslim preacher Zamri Vinoth for his rally against “illegal” temples, urgently demanding that Zamri stop his campaign on the issue.

Pusat Komas stated that such actions regress Malaysia as a society by inciting tensions against minority communities through disinformation and hateful rhetoric.

At the same time, Pusat Komas warned against responding to hate with further hate, noting that retaliatory actions such as doxxing, harassment and threats of violence only deepen harm and escalate tensions.

It pointed out that such responses are not only unlawful but also further stoke the cycle of fear and vigilantism.

“Malaysia has seen repeated incidents of racial and religious tension, too often handled only through punitive measures after the fact. This reactive approach does not address underlying grievances or prevent future issues,” it added.

The group called upon the government to make haste in establishing an independent reconciliatory mechanism, such as a National Harmony Commission, to enable mediation and de-escalation when sensitive topics arise.

Strengthen civic education

Pusat Komas also urged universities and relevant agencies to strengthen civic education, digital responsibility and interfaith engagement, particularly in managing online provocation and misinformation.

It further called on the public and political leaders to refrain from inciting hate, sharing personal information, and rejecting threats and violence, stressing that due process must be allowed to take its course.

Earlier this week, a university student was arrested for posting on social media a picture of the Quran being stepped on.

Pahang police chief Yahaya Othman said the Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah (UMPSA) student is being investigated under the Penal Code for insulting another religion.

He is also being probed under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 for improper use of network facilities.

“We will apply for a remand order against the student today,” Yahaya said. - Mkini