Islam encourages dialogue, good advice, DAP leader tells Akmal

 

A DAP leader has voiced concern over Umno Youth chief Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh’s handling of the recent KK Mart controversy, warning that it could foster extremism.

DAP central executive committee member Sheikh Umar Bagharib Ali said this is contrary to Islamic teachings which encourage good dialogue.

In a statement today, Sheikh Umar (above) said he had no qualms over Akmal’s desire to defend Islam from insult, saying many Muslims share similar sentiments.

“However, to me, his approach which is at times provocatively nuanced, is irresponsible and excessive.

“This is dangerous. Under the guise of ‘defending the sanctity of religion’, Akmal’s approach may unwittingly sow the seeds of extremism.

“This is not what Islam teaches. Islam emphasises wise appeals, exemplary advice, and constructive debates as illustrated in verse 125 of Surah An-Nahl,” he stated.

Verse 125 of Surah An-Nahl reads: “Invite ˹all˺ to the Way of your Lord with wisdom and kind advice, and only debate with them in the best manner. Surely your Lord ˹alone˺ knows best who has strayed from His Way and who is ˹rightly˺ guided.”

Akmal has been one of the main proponents of punishing KK Mart with boycotts after socks bearing the word Allah were found in three outlets in Selangor.

Violence in religion’s name

Anger among some Muslims had led to two attempted firebombings at KK Mart outlets, one in Perak and one in Pahang.

While Akmal has denounced the violent reactions, he has maintained the call for boycotts.

Umno Youth chief Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh

Sheikh Umar pointed out that Akmal’s approach might lead the Muslim community to resort to violence in the name of religion.

“In my view, Akmal may not realise that his excessive actions, statements, and calls in this issue could spark more unforeseen violent actions between the multireligious citizens, even though he does not wish for it,” he remarked.

He added that the Umno Youth chief must learn from the aftermath of PAS president Abdul Hadi Awang’s 1981 amanat (message) wherein he described the party’s political opponents as kafir and PAS’ struggle against them as a jihad and its members would be martyred if they died in the struggle.

Sheikh Umar said this led to deep divisions among Muslims and even tore families apart.

As such, he said Akmal must learn to prioritise peace.

He added that there was no further need for Akmal to comment on the matter after the Yang di-Pertuan Agong decreed action over the socks scandal. - Mkini