I refer to the controversy generated by the Perak Mufti who wants the Kongsi Raya celebrations stopped as it may be against Islam.

I am unsure why these sort of thoughts and opinion keeps cropping up every now and then from our multi-racial government. I could understand if it comes from the opposition Islamic PAS party as that is what they stand for.

Surely a multi-racial setting like ours, these sorts of thoughtless and biased opinions should be discussed privately before it gets blown out of proportion. Minister Rais Yatim has asked for specific clauses and religious rules that bar Muslims from joining non-Muslims celebrations so I hope the learned mufti can come up with the goodies now.

If the good and learned mufti is so worried about being tainted with non-Muslim influences and practices, maybe he should also suggest to the government that separate funds be administered for tax collections from non-Muslims and this are not used for any purposes relating to Muslims. Surely revenues derived from non-Muslims may be 'contaminated' for his liking and he must ensure that his salary and the funds for his conference and activities are not from any 'non-halal' source.

Will we hear him championing that line of thinking soon? If he doesn't, then we have to assume he is just picking on the most convenient hobby horse.