In reference to the letter, "Let's not adopt a 'Talibanistic' lifestyle" (Nov 29), I wish to correct the writer's perception that PAS MP Mahfuz Omar's call for the withdrawal of EPF investments in tobacco, alcohol and gaming companies is another manifestation of extremism and fundamentalism.

It is the duty of every Muslim not to gain from activities that are against the teachings of Islam. Mahfuz's act of making that call is not reflective of extremism or fundamentalism; any Muslim would have done the same, even the authorities, if they adhere to the prime minister's declaration that we are an Islamic state.

The writer mentioned that in a secular society, everyone should be allowed to do whatever he or she feels good. What about if an individual feels that it is right for him or her to legalise prostitution? What about promoting completely naked women as barbers? That will be good business! Imagine the contributions to the state's coffer, all the big money in taxes!

So what is the issue here? It is about justifying the means for the ends?

Why must we promote alcohol consumption and gambling just to justify dividends? The effects of these vices far outweigh their gains. We have seen battered wives and children partly resulting from drunken husbands and fathers, and broken families due to gambling. As much as the ordinary people abhor such things yet there are others who rationalise that they can use the financial contributions of such activities in the form of taxes to build roads...etc. including having more sexy nymphets employed to promote such activities.

Yes the writer was honest enough to say that he enjoys looking at beautiful and sexy women. But what is he trying to promote? Just because he enjoys ogling at beauties, must others share in his sick fun?

The bottom line is, we can be honest in just about anything: going nude and make more money through the sale of the flesh, embarking on more drinking sprees so that more sales could be made resulting in more tax gains, etc.

The issue here is not about extremism nor fundamentalism...but if we want dividends for our EPF money, then in the process should we promote negative activities which will result in the erosion of values? The ends does not justify the means. It is a religious issue to the Muslims and a moral issue to others. Whatever issues it may be, but whatever investment that the EPF make, should not lead to the degradation of our positive lifestyles.

So, whether BN component parties or the opposition parties should stand firm in looking at the underlying contribution of EPF investments; positive financial yields through the promotion of negative social illness, or positive financial gains through other positive means?