PN MP: Codify law to specify ‘Allah’ word in Quranic context

PARLIAMENT | A Perikatan Nasional MP had submitted a Private Member’s Bill to amend the Interpretation Acts 1948 and 1967 to codify in law the meaning of the word “Allah” in line with the Quran.

Zulkifli Ismail (PN-Jasin) said during the parliamentary session today that he hopes this move can end the protracted polemic surrounding the “Allah” issue.

However, Deputy Dewan Rakyat Speaker Alice Lau noted that the motion had been rejected and advised the lawmaker to file an appeal if he was dissatisfied with the decision.

Zulkifli (above) later held a press conference at the Parliament lobby, along with several other PN MPs, including Opposition Leader Hamzah Zainudin.

“In this situation, where there are alarming symptoms of apostasy and the emergence of various deviant religious teachings brought into Malaysia from foreign countries and spread to Muslims, I think the proposed bill to amend the Interpretation Acts is no longer a choice, but necessary and a duty.

“Without an Act that specifically controls the meaning of the word ‘Allah’ from any misinterpretation, I worry that the religious structure of this country, which has been centred on Islam for the past 700 years, will be threatened,” Zulkifli said in the press conference.

He added that he was disappointed the motion he submitted was rejected by the speaker.

Quoting several passages from the Quran, Zulkifli said using the word “Allah” in a way that is not in line with the Islamic faith is the same as attacking the religion, which would cause disharmony among the people, Zulkifli claimed.

Meanwhile, Hamzah supported the Jasin lawmaker’s move and thanked Zulkifli for his initiative in submitting the Private Member’s Bill.

The issue was reignited when it was revealed the government had withdrawn its appeal in the Jill Ireland case, which concerns the use of the word “Allah” in a non-Muslim context.

Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail has since said the Home Ministry is reviewing and updating a more comprehensive directive to deal with the use of the word “Allah” and three other words in religious publications.

Subsequently, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim reaffirmed that the government will amend and revoke laws in conflict with a Council of Rulers’ decision on how the word “Allah” can only be used by Muslims in Peninsular Malaysia and with restrictions for non-Muslims in Sabah and Sarawak. - Mkini