COMMENT Malaysian oppositionists are shooting themselves in the foot if they want Islamic preacher Dr Zakir Naik banned from holding forth in Malaysian forums.

Zakir has been accused by those who want him banned of being a peddler of hate.

The accusation, if true, would render the preacher impugnable. Upholding freedom of speech does not mean pyromaniacs should be allowed to hold a lighted match to tinder.