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I refer to Concerned Malaysian's letter, Non-halal: Tolerance should swing both ways .

Concerned Malaysian suggested that if the canteen operator at Sekolah Kebangsaan Seri Mega is worried about tainting canteen utensils with non-halal food, ' ... the least he could do is wash them thoroughly with soap while wearing rubber gloves'.

I am not a Muslim. However, I do know that in Islam, utensils, or any object for that matter, that has come into contact with non-halal items such as pork, must be washed (samak) with one portion of water from the soil and six portions of clean water. Thus, I believe Concerned Malaysian's well-intended suggestion to the headmaster is not viable in this matter.

However, I agree that tolerance must work both ways. If we Malaysians could learn about each other's belief and culture, we could be much more tolerant. For example, a non-Muslim like myself will be able to see where the Muslims are coming from in the argument over non-halal food and utensils.

Similarly, if Muslims took some time to learn about the belief and cultures of the non-Muslims in this country, we would be living in a more tolerant and harmonious society.

Sadly though, many Muslims in Malaysia do not care about belief and culture other than their own because of the status of 'official religion' of Islam and the importance that is accorded to it by the powers-that-be.

Having said that, I am indeed grateful for Muslim friends who are sensitive to my needs.

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