Who can save CRISIS-HIT Malaysia?

Three religious-related incidents in recent days have triggered intense controversies in the country while creating suspicion and misunderstandings among different religions and races, causing the entire society scarred.

I believe that everyone knows which three incidents I am referring to even if I do not point them out here.

I wish not to say frightening things to scare the masses and I am not in a groundless fear either. I must say it very seriously that currently, different religions and races in the country have been trapped in an confusing situation. We are in the midst of a crisis with unknown consequences. To put it seriously, the arrogant and imperious attitude of some state's religious departments has brought severe tests and challenges to the foundation of mutual respect and trust that has been established for over half a century, as long as the long built harmonious relations among different religions and races.

Malaysia is a multi-racial and multi-cultural country. We all know the importance of religious and racial harmony. However, we also know that all things have two sides. Different religions have different doctrines while different races have different cultural backgrounds and customs. When they meet, they sparkle and could create a better society, as well as a terror conflict. The former is a blessing while the latter is a curse. Which one should we choose?

The answer should not be controversial. Unfortunately, when Teoh Cheng Cheng's funeral was aborted, causing her unable to rest in peace; when the Selangor Religious Department (Jais) refused to return the 321 copies of the Malay language Bibles (AlKitab) and Iban Bibles (Bup Kudus) seized from the Bible Society of Malaysia (BSM) office and instead asked the deputy public prosecutor to seek a court ruling to dispose of the Bibles; and when the Ipoh High Court awarded child custody to the mother and required the Muslim convert father to return the children, the Inspector-General of Police refused to execute the court's order based on a "neutral" stand, our country's legal principles seem to have been at the edge of collapse.

When law is not complied with and when reasoning is not prioritised, the existing legal system would become incomprehensible and confusing to the people and thus, intense discontent and mistrust would emerge among the masses.

Multiracial Malaysia

Amidst the angry protests of some people, particularly politicians, other people, particularly moderate religious people, are relatively rational and calm. They hope that all unpleasant events could be solved by seeking common ground with everyone's wisdom and strength through communication and negotiation.

Perhaps the government should feel fortunate as to date, although non-Muslims have deeply felt that their rights are being gradually eroded, no drastic action has been made, neither high-profile protest is staged. Instead, actions have been taken in legal ways with the hope that the spirit of the Constitution can solve all disputes and misunderstandings in the most peaceful way.

Needless to doubt, it is a portrayal of highly self-discipline and tolerance, which are worthy of praise. However, please do not take it for granted. If, I mean if, the issues cannot be solved through such rational ways but continues to have other side issues to complicate the problems, challenge the legal principles and stage absurd dramas, the people's tolerance could evolve into resentment that could be followed by shrill cries and tougher protests. It is definitely not a consequences that we want to see, neither a blessing for the country.

Who can save the current crisis-hit country?

At this moment, what we hope to see is, politicians and religious fanatics can stop playing with fire, stop rendering religious differences and stop the senseless mutual accusations. If you still care about the people and if you really still care about the country, then please show us your courage and wisdom to solve the crisis, and let the country continue moving forward in peace! -Mysinchew