A ruling politician today appeared to question Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi's gag order by urging the government not to ignore the issue of religious freedom in this country.

Kota Melaka parliamentarian Wong Nai Chee, who is from MCA, also pointed out the apparent lack of understanding among the people who oppose the Article 11 forums.

"Sweeping the issue under the carpet will not placate the minority groups into silence ... assuming them into a pressured position from the strident voices of majority groups," he said in a statement issued by the party headquarters.

In clarifying the issue, Wong said: "Firstly, the constitutional rights of every Malaysian is a matter of public concern, and secondly, the objective of the forums is to discuss matters on freedom of religion and it does not question the position of Islam as the official religion of Malaysia."

"Actually, it (the forums) seeks to discuss freedom of religion in general and the legitimacy of other religions in Malaysia," he added

Wong was responding to Abdullah's call yesterday to end all discussions on the status of Islam in Malaysia.

While stating that the government understood the feelings of non-Muslims, the premier said such discussions have reached a worrying stage.

Lack of tolerance

Commenting on the recent protest against an Article 11 forum in Johor Bahru, Wong said it clearly showed that tolerance and true understanding have not reached the desired stage or level for nation-building in the long run.

The MCA leader also called on the government to promote more understanding on this issue among the people.

"The general consensus on religious issues among the public could only be reached by having a rational public debate," he said.

In view of this, he suggested that the Parliamentary Select Committee on National Integration be used as a platform to discuss the issue.

On Abdullah's call to put a full-stop to all talks, he said MCA fully understood the circumstances which led the prime minister and the government to arrive at that decision.

He said the party also comprehended the government's concerns to prevent tensions rising in Malaysia's multi-religious society.