A veteran Islamic NGO has called for an end to the public row over whether Malaysia is an Islamic or secular state if its aim is to drive a wedge between Islam and the other religions.

"The polemic on the status of Malaysia, whether it is a secular or Islamic country, has to stop immediately if it is aimed at creating tension among the religions.

"Such polemic, made openly in the media, will only add to the clutter instead of bringing solutions," said Angkatan Belia Islam Malaysia (Abim) president Amidi Abd Manan ( left ) in a statement today.

He was referring to recent statements by several non-Muslim groups, but did not specify any.

Amidi said it was unfortunate that the issue is being "masterminded by certain parties" and prolonging the row risks causing animosity among the races.

"We fear if this matter is prolonged in an open and unobjective manner, the fires of hatred will flare.

"Physical quarrels and clashes will happen in no time, like a crack waiting to break."

'Interfaith relations deteriorating'

Amidi said the group felt the deteriorating relations between religions was a serious matter.

"And would be unfortunate if it is masterminded by certain parties who try to take advantage of the murky situation," he added.

The rift, he said, had dire consequences and will affect the spirit of patriotism in the country and "result in treachery".  

The debate over Malaysia's secularism was reignited when Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Jamil Khir Baharom in a parliamentary reply claimed that Malaysia is not a secular state due to the special position of Islam stated in the federal constitution.

The statement drew flak from many quarters, including Umno BN partners MCA and Gerakan who insisted Malaysia is a secular state.

DAP subsequently challenged the two parties to stand up to Jamil Khir and demand a retraction , which however has not happened.