Gerakan Youth deputy chief Andy Yong today called for the Home Ministry to review its ban on a book by the G25 group of prominent Malay-Muslim leaders, arguing the move was regressive.

It is not in line with existing efforts by the government to encourage different communities to have a greater understanding about Islam as a religion of peace and moderation, said Yong in a statement.

"I have a copy of the book and after reading it, there was nothing controversial but academic articles written by respected academicians, prominent lawyers and progressive Islamic scholars.

"I did not see any element that would be prejudicial to public order. I hope the government would review the ban," he said.

Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi on June 14 authorised the ban on the book titled 'Breaking the Silence: Voices of Moderation - Islam in a Constitutional Democracy'.

The government claimed the book was likely to be prejudicial to public order, likely to alarm public opinion and likely to be prejudicial to public interest should absolutely be prohibited throughout Malaysia

The book, which features a series of articles on the impact of Islamic bureaucracy in Malaysia and its consistency with provisions of the federal constitution, was first published by Singapore-based Marshall Cavendish International (Asia) Pte Ltd in December 2015.

Yong said Gerakan Youth will write to the government to urge it to consider lifting the ban in the spirit of openness and freedom of thought.

The lawyer added these qualities are crucial to building a better understanding on Islam in a modern and democratic Malaysian society.

"I think banning books is not helpful to the understanding of Islam and its place in our society.

"We in Gerakan Youth believe Malaysians are mature and conscious enough in discerning the contents of the book.

“Allowing its publication in an open manner is crucial to realising our aspiration as a truly modern nation," he said.

Yong said he is confident public order is well-guarded and stable, and the book published by G25 will not easily constitute a threat.

Therefore, he said a review of the ban is justified and should be considered.