The first ever dialogue between Penang mufti Wan Salim Mohd Noor and Catholic bishop Sebastian Francis in George Town today acknowledged that there is a “gulf” in understanding on several issues between the two different faiths.

A participant in the 90-minute dialogue said the Muslim counterpart was willing to “face up and acknowledge this gulf in understanding”.

“There was discussion about such issues and we felt we can at least move forward from here,” said the participant, who has been involved in such dialogues between Muslim and Christian leaders for about two years.

“Previous encounters only dwelled on good feelings, good vibes from meeting each other in the flesh,” added the participant, who requested that he not be named.

“The natural cordiality of such encounters was enough to submerge differences, but today, we credit the mufti because, as the chair of the meeting, he was willing to allow and field questions on issues such as the Islamic State (IS),” he added.

Attended by 20 people, Sebastian led the group of Catholics, including several parish priests, well-known blogger Anil Netto and Malaysiakini contributor Terence Netto.

Also present was Penang PAS interfaith coordinator Abdul Rahman Kassim.

Facing challenges ahead

At a press conference later, Wan Salim described the meeting as a "historic event", saying this was the first time in Penang that members of both faiths had met with such openness and harmony.

He said the discussion at the meeting could help foster goodwill, understanding and unity between the two main faiths.

"The discussion was very beneficial to both our faiths and with this understanding, we can face the challenges ahead," Wan Salim said.

He said these challenges included issues or moral values affecting both religions, and violence or killing, which both faiths opposed.

"No religion teaches its believers to be extremists. Such a phenomenon happens when those involved in such violence do not refer to the religious text in their own religions,” he added.

Wan Salim was referring to the violence involving the Islamic State fighters, saying that “no ulamak approves of their struggle”.

“They follow the authoritative religious texts, but they have their own interpretation of jihad, which is not in line with Islam.

“In Islam, we do not approve of violence, killing or extremism; we do not approve of any act that can undermine harmony among the communities,” he added.

Wan Salim said the discussion allowed the two different groups to find a “common ground” to address pressing issues affecting all communities, regardless of social background, religion or race.

Meanwhile, Wan Salim said that a syariah court representative was present during the dialogue and spoke on conversion of children involving Muslim and non-Muslim parents.

Seeking common values

On negative perception of the Muslim community towards its leaders meeting with Christian leaders, Wan Salim said: “It is our duty to explain to our followers that in Islam, we will encourage friendship and do not want enemies.

“Differences in religion are natural. It is God’s will that it is so; that is why we have so many different views, but we must have tolerance and unity in diversity.

“Problems arise out of misunderstanding and it will take time to resolve such issues.”

Sebastian said he felt encouraged to have met with Wan Salim, and both leaders have pledged their commitment to continue seeking common values.

Penang was witness to a harmonious relationship between Muslims and Christians, Sebantian said, and that more “bridge builders” should be encouraged.

“We have to provide leadership for our respective people to come together, so that unity and understanding can be fostered.

“Although it can be challenging, we are committed to making this happen at the grassroots level,” he added.

“Yes, there are many issues to be addressed but we have to tackle it all in God’s time.”