The PAS Batu division organised a visit to several non-Muslim places of worship, where among others, the Islamist party's fiercely-debated move to amend the Syariah Courts (Criminal Jurisdiction) Act was discussed.

The delegation met those from the St Mary's Church, the Athiswaran Hindu temple as well as Buddhist chief high priest Saranankara Nayaka Maha Thero.

“We pioneered this visit to create a harmonious situation among the races,” read a posting on PAS information chief Nasrudin Hassan's Facebook page.

Meanwhile, PAS Batu chief Nurul Islam Mohamed Yussof said the visit was organised in order for both sides to learn about their respective religions and cultures.

“The Buddhist priest we met said that in the more than 30 years he has been here, not a single political leader or Muslims have made such a visit. This was the first time, and he was glad.

“He asked us about Islam, and we answered that Islam does not impede other faiths. In fact as Muslims, we are required to respect other religions...,” he told Malaysiakini.

Nurul Islam said some had also asked about the Syariah court amendments.

“We explained that the matter has nothing do with non-Muslims, it is only for Muslims. We also explained about the punishments. They appeared to understand.

“We also told them that in future, if there is anything that they do not understand about Islam, they could refer to us.

“We are willing to be the agents to shed light on these issues, and we asked them to put forth these explanations to their respective followers,” he added.

Nurul Islam said an agreement was also reached to hold more programmes together.

“As Muslims, we are encouraged to respect other religions.

“But we explained that when it concerns religious festivals, we cannot attend. But we can send friends from our supporters' wing for these festivals. But we would be able to attend functions such as celebrating the New Year or weddings and so forth,” he added.