The recent proposal and justification by Perlis mufti Mat Jahaya Husin to allow second marriages without consent and the Terengganu proposition on polygamy for assemblymen expose what we should have known all along — there are a lot of so-called Islamic experts such as muftis and PAS leaders themselves who dole out questionable 'wisdom'.

Doesn't Islam allow polygamy under strict conditions and foremost, only with consent from existing wives? The fact that there are these high-ranking officials who dare make such proposals shows that many of them have whimsical ideals and are even irrational to boot.

Could there be some truth in that many Malaysians opt for Islamic studies not because they are truly interested or believe in it but because it is easier for them? Not unlike those who choose to do arts and 'soft' subjects in schools because the other alternatives were more difficult to grasp.

There are a few good Islamic experts in this country but the fact of the matter is they are the exception. These include not only people who have gone to Islamic universities in the Middle East but have obtained positions in world-class institutions. The sad truth is that many have gone to mediocre schools and got only passing grades in their studies.

It is sad these people hold so much power and are given so much attention. That is the very reason why Malaysia must always remain a secular country where religion is separate from politics.