PAS slams group's 'Islamophobic' objection to Jakim officers in govt depts

PAS has slammed an interfaith group’s objection to the proposal to place Islamic religious officers in government departments.

According to the party’s secretary-general Takiyuddin Hassan, the Malaysian Consultative Council of Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism and Taoism's (MCCBCHST) objection reeks of Islamophobia.

“PAS is disappointed with MCCBCHST’s act, which deliberately and consistently creates unharmonious situations and animosity among multiracial Malaysians.

“What’s more unfortunate is that this discordant, dangerous narrative, which was raised without any basis, was done after the nation celebrated its 67th independence day,” Takiyuddin said in a statement today.

Yesterday, MCCBCHST expressed concern that placing Islamic Development Department (Jakim) officers in government departments could affect constitutional safeguards, including the fundamental rights guaranteed by Articles 5 to 13 of the Federal Constitution.

‘Stance challenges Muslims’ rights’

Comparing the group’s previous opposition to the proposed amendments to the Syariah Courts (Criminal Jurisdiction) Act 1965 (Act 355), Takiyuddin said the council’s latest reasoning is also based on “half-baked, inaccurate” interpretations of the law.

“In both oppositions, the group clearly shows its Islamophobia, where every step taken to strengthen Islam in the country is construed as a threat to the rights and liberties of the non-Muslims in the country.

“PAS sees the MCCBCHST’s stance as having serious repercussions and as a challenge to Muslims’ right to practise their religion in the country.

“Similar to commenting on the issue concerning Act 355, the group has yet again shown its extreme and arrogant attitude, which infringes on Islamic affairs, by dictating which Islamic practices should be in the ‘public sphere’ and vice versa,” Takiyuddin added.

The Kota Bharu MP urged MCCBCHST to withdraw its statement, adding that the group should return to its original role as a council that preserves understanding and harmony between religious groups in the country.

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