I would like to response to some letters debating on religious conversion through marriage.

As to Aleesha's view that it is selfish for those who refuse to convert, let me ask, is it not selfish as well to force an individual to convert against his/her will?

I personally find it extremely selfish for so-called "religious" parents to impose a particular religious belief on a child. Is it not enough or important for parents to impart universal values such as humility, tolerance, kindness, compassion, courteous, responsibility, etc. to their children, instead of "brainwashing" them into believing that there is only one true religion and hence, other religion is wrong.

By imposing strict teachings and belief of one religion to a child will only create intolerance and xenophobia. I am not a Muslim and hence I cannot speak on their behalf or to them. It is your right and prerogative as a Muslim to practice what you believe in but I don't think it's right to force non-Muslim to convert against their will.

In her response to Ng's letter , I believe Aleesha has provided somehow a rather narrow and unsubstantiated claim that children brought up in a non-religious environment are prone to have free sex, unwanted pregnancies, alcohol and drug abuse.

While living in the states for 20 years, I am wondering whether Aleesha has heard of any jokes pertaining to the "preacher's daughter"? Differing from the writer's view, I for one have known many preacher's children to have gone "the wrong path" in rebellion to their father's teachings.

Hence, I don't think it is fair or wise to make such sweeping statements that children are prone to vices if they are not brought up in a religious environment. In addition to that, I have also known many friends who are free-thinkers and yet they are good people who contribute positively to their family, community and country.

I think enough has been said on religion and it is time for people to just move on to other things, i.e. what and how each of us can contribute more to our society. In the meantime, try to think a little bit deeper on what I believe to be on of the most important commandments, "do unto others as you would have them do unto you."

Do you want others to convert you into another religion? If not, then what gives you the right to force another to convert?