I am quite distressed by the recent malicious columns and letters in malaysiakini towards Islam. We do not expect anyone to understand Islam by reading one or two columns written by some random Malay 'intellectuals' or some overzealous readers, who claim to know what Islam stands for.

Therefore I am not going to even try using this forum. Why this sudden emphasis on Islam? Doesn't this country have a large composition of Buddhists, Hindus and Christians as well? For us to have a progressive dialogue, the first thing is, to come to common terms between ourselves. We have to first concentrate on what we have in common and then agree to disagree on the aspects one might find contentious.

There is no point in trying to find out each other's 'weakness'; what is more dangerous is to speak from little knowledge. What we hold to be social norms, may not be the case for others. What we find acceptable, may not be so for others. What we need is understanding, and we will not achieve it this way. It would need deep study and discussions.

Thus I submit to you, that this is not a forum to discuss such issues. Let's put things in their proper place. Malaysiakini is an excellent media for alternative news, but it should not strive to be anything more than that, as it may only create more misunderstandings and mistrust between Malaysians.

A quick note on the 'chopping' of a thief's hand. In the whole history of the Islamic civilisation, from the time of the prophet (peace be upon him) to 1924, the fall of the Ottoman empire, in lands stretching from Spain to Indonesia, the total number of people who have undergone this punishment is around 200.

Compare that with today's statistics, on how many people are sent to prison each day, resulting in 'small-time' crooks becoming bigger criminals after being imprisoned together with real hardcore ones.

Muslims should not be discussing what is 'wrong' with the hudud law; rather, they should be discussing what is wrong with the implementation of such laws in so-called Muslims countries like US-sponsored Saudi.

And Allah knows best.