I refer to Malaysiakini report Ministry to probe Herald use of 'Allah' despite ban.

In my humble opinion as a practising Muslim, the use of the term ‘ Allah’ by other Christian groups, including the Herald, should not be allowed at all.

From my own little understanding of Islam, I feel the use of the term ‘Allah’ by Christians is considered outrageously blasphemous, considering the fact that its use has been in the context of the Christian concept of the ‘Trinity’ as opposed to the Muslim concept of Tawheed - the Oneness of God.

As a Muslim, that intrinsic feeling and faith about the sanctity of the word ‘Allah’ had never been challenged until one experience that I find it hard to forget. Let me relay it briefly

A few years ago I was in Bario, Sarawak, attending a social function organised by a local community leader and attended by several hundred local people. The event took place at a public community hall at about 9pm.

As the Bario community is largely a Christian community, the opening prayer recital was based on the Bible and in Bahasa Malaysia too. As I was listening attentively to the prayer being said, I was taken aback to hear the word Allah and anak Allah being mentioned several times.

I was really offended and thought of standing up and correcting the host and to prevent him from repeating the words ‘anak Allah’. Realising that my reaction would cause a commotion, I decided to restrain myself.

For any practising Muslim, the words ‘anak Allah’ are very offensive, blasphemous and an unforgivable sin as Allah himself said in the Quran: ‘He begets not nor is He begotten’

If the Catholic publication Herald or any other Christian group is adamant about using the term ‘Allah’, I am certain this is going to create tension, anxieties and uneasiness among Muslims.

I therefore agree with the government’s decision to ban Christian groups from using the word ‘ Allah’. The Christians must respect the sanctity that the Muslims hold dearly with regard to the name ‘Allah’.

This is to ensure peace and tranquility between Muslims and Christians in this peaceful country of Malaysia.