The government has been urged to set up a ministry for religious affairs.

Making the call in Kuala Lumpur today, Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam) chairperson Abu Talib Othman said such a ministry could focus on religion and other religious related matters, which the people of the various religions and beliefs could not by themselves resolve or problems that could not be managed within their own religious circles.

"There have been calls by certain groups of people for more open dialogues on the issue of the right of choice and matters related to religion in the context of the constitution and human rights.

"Attempts to bring about the formation of an inter-faith commission have not gone down well. One possible answer to the problem, could be to establish the ministry," he said in his opening remarks at the launching of Human Rights Day 2006.

Religion very personal

The event was launched by Culture, Arts and Heritage Minister Dr Rais Yatim on behalf of Deputy Premier Najib Tun Razak.

According to Bernama, Abu Talib said religion was very personal and concerning one's beliefs and rights and it should not be viewed as a legal issue.

He said Suhakam called for the repeal of any provision of law which limits the right of a person to seek legal recourse through the judicial path.

"Perhaps Parliament too should set up up a committee to review all laws which purport to oust the jurisdiction of the court and to make access to justice a reality," he added.