Aliran welcomes Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s recent call for a “healthy and constructive dialogue” on the controversial Mufti (Federal Territories) Bill 2024, which will be tabled in the current parliamentary session.
This is because certain quarters have expressed deep concern over the perceived undemocratic and unconstitutional character of the bill.
It would be counterproductive to push through a bill that has sparked controversy and unease among Muslims and others. We need serious conversations to help clarify the contentious provisions of the bill. This would be the occasion to address the concerns purportedly triggered by “Islamophobibic” impulses, as Anwar claimed.
We in Aliran, of course, do not condone, let alone encourage, criticisms driven by Islamophobia. But we are also wary of any attempt to weaponise the term Islamophobia as a means of shutting down legitimate criticism and concerns in a democracy.
The use of the term Islamophobia carries toxic connotations. If it is done indiscriminately, it can be dangerously polarising and may even result in injustice being inflicted on those merely expressing views out of sincere concern.
- Sign up for Aliran's free daily email updates or weekly newsletters or both
- Make a one-off donation to Persatuan Aliran Kesedaran Negara, CIMB a/c 8004240948
- Make a pledge or schedule an auto donation to Aliran every month or every quarter
- Become an Aliran member
Accusing those expressing concerns over the Mufti Bill of being “Islamophobic” is akin to labelling critics of the Zionist regime as “antisemitic”. Both tactics are a cynical means of suppressing legitimate criticisms and protests.
Such unwarranted labelling does not enlighten the people, many of whom are unclear about the bill and need clarity and the truth.
Society should be built on mutual understanding, trust and democratic practices. There should not be any divisive labels cast on those who want to uphold these principles.
Aliran executive committee
8 November 2024
AGENDA RAKYAT - Lima perkara utama
- Tegakkan maruah serta kualiti kehidupan rakyat
- Galakkan pembangunan saksama, lestari serta tangani krisis alam sekitar
- Raikan kerencaman dan keterangkuman
- Selamatkan demokrasi dan angkatkan keluhuran undang-undang
- Lawan rasuah dan kronisme
