Controversial columnist Ridhuan Tee Abdullah has scoffed at the joint letter urging moderation by 25 eminent Malays, stating that there was no such thing as a "moderate Muslim".

"They claim to be moderate Muslims? What is the meaning of moderate? Islam is not a moderate religion. Islam is fundamental in nature," he said in his column in Sinar Harian yesterday.

Describing the kind of Muslim he is, Ridhuan uses the term "fundamental Muslim".

"Fundamental means a Muslim who truly understands and subscribes to Islam or makes Islam as a way of life and not just being outwardly Muslim," he said.

He was responding to the message by 25 eminent Malays comprising former top civil servants, ambassadors, academics and a judge.

The group had expressed concern at the rise of extremist groups such as Perkasa and Isma and urged a sincere dialogue about Islam in the country.

They also urged Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak to show leadership amid the vitriol from right-wing groups.

Defending race and religion not extremism

In an apparent defence of Perkasa and Isma, Ridhuan said he too did not dare call the NGOs "extreme" even though they are not well liked.

"Defending the religion and the rights of a race is not extremist, but fundamental. Particularly among the native population.

"Extremists are those who act blindly and profess deviant teachings," he said.

Ridhuan went on the deride the former top civil servants, asking if they had used their positions for the benefit of religion, race and country.

"My question is, who has the right to debate (about Islam)? Should it be from among those who have retired?

"Are they experts? Why did they not make their recommendations while they were still working?

"Why are they only becoming vocal after they have retired?" he said.