A cabinet minister today urged that a debate be held between the Islamic Development Department (Jakim) and activist lawyer Eric Paulsen on his claim that Jakim was “promoting extremism every Friday”.

Communications and Multimedia Minister Ahmad Shabery Cheek said Paulsen should be given an opportunity to explain what he meant by his controversial tweet that had led to him being arrested and investigated under the Sedition Act 1948.

"I would agree if Jakim consents to debate with Eric (Paulsen), to go to any television station and explain what he meant by his statement," Shabery ( below ) said at a press conference in Kuala Lumpur today, after launching Pos Malaysia's new logo.

 

Last Friday, Paulsen had tweeted, “Jakim is promoting extremism every Friday. Government needs to address that if serious about extremism in Malaysia.”

 

Many have interpreted his tweet to be a direct reference to the Friday sermons in mosques. The tweet has since been deleted.

 

Shabery said it is important that a person is given an opportunity to explain what they meant.

 

"Which Friday sermon is he talking about, whereas sermons prepared by Jakim are the most measured ( terkawal )?

 

"In this era of freedom of speech and expression, it should not be just a mere sentence but should be explained and elaborated so that people would understand better," he told reporters.

 

Paulsen was arrested on Monday night for investigations under the Sedition Act for his tweet, and was released on police bail yesterday.

Meanwhile, Paulsen has accepted the suggestion for a debate.

"I gladly accept the invitation to debate," Paulsen said.