Open debate on issues relating to Islam should not be restricted as no one has exclusive hold on the religion, says non-governmental organisation (NGO) Sisters in Islam (SIS).

Although SIS welcomes the advice by Conference of Rulers yesterday for the rakyat (people) to be cautious when expressing their views on religious matters, it stressed that diversity of opinion on religious issues must be respected by all.

"In an environment where Islam plays a major influence in shaping the Malaysian society, its way of life, laws and general policies, the efforts to sideline the diverse and critical views would be inappropriate," said SIS in a press statement today.

Violating Islamic principles

The NGO also claimed that any restriction to stop public debates on religious matters is tantamount to violating one of the Islamic principles which respects differences of opinion among various schools of thought.

Any attempt to use laws to classify differences of opinion on religious matters as a crime would only bring negative effect to the society as it will only allow a certain party to monopolise the meanings and contents of religious issues.

"As Islam becomes more and more relevant in society, clashes of opinion are bound to happen and it would be unfair if only a certain party is allowed to express its views on religious matters," said SIS.

In a statement the Conference of Rulers, after a two-day meeting which was chaired by the Sultan of Terengganu, announced that it wants the relevant authorities to take appropriate measures in handling issues which can tarnish the sanctity of Islam.