Ramasamy: Zakir’s visit a result of Malay-Muslim hegemony

After controversial preacher allowed in, DAP man asks if govt will do the same for non-Muslim evangelists.

GEORGE TOWN: The Federal Government is insensitive to people of other faiths by allowing controversial preacher Zakir Naik into the country, said the DAP’s P. Ramasamy.

Ramasamy anticipated more visits from Zakir and his team in view of the support shown by the government. “Where are the non Muslims going to go? Are they going to put up with this discrimination?

He said Zakir’s freedom to preach and give talks was a result of institutionalised Malay-Muslim hegemony by Umno. “Zakir’s visit, coupled with his conversion mission was a result of Malay-Muslim arrogance towards non Muslims,” he said.

Appeals by Hindu groups to cancel Zakir’s trip had been given the cold shoulder because those in power condoned Zakir’s actions.

Ramasamy, who is state assemblyman for Batu Kawan, asked if the Federal Government would render the same gesture to non-Muslim evangelists. “If the government had the wellbeing and sensitivity of non-Muslims in mind, then Zakir would not have been allowed for his visit.

Mumbai-born Zakir, was a recipient of the Tokoh Maal Hijrah award in 2013. His talks have caused a stir among Hindu groups, after perceived insults to Hinduism and their practices.

Zakir was also reported to have been banned from Britain and Canada, following his apparent support of the Al-Qaeda terrorist group.