Why vocal about GISBH but not Nga, PAS clerics ask religious authorities

Summary

• PAS ulama council questions why religious authorities have not spoken out against intrusion on Islamic boundaries by Nga Kor Ming and DAP.

• Ulama council chief Ahmad Yahaya also questions whether Nga's defiance over a Christmas celebration is proof of an evangelist agenda.

The PAS ulama council is demanding that religious authorities do something about DAP and Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming.

Its chief Ahmad Yahaya said it was clear that DAP and Nga were transgressing Islamic boundaries with the continued defence of a Christmas event that Nga's ministry hosted.

"The ulama council demands that the religious affairs minister and its main agency the Islamic Development Department (Jakim) stop being an observer in this issue.

"What is happening is a clear intrusion against Islam.

"Why do they choose to be quiet about issues like this, but are very vocal when the GISBH issue or other matters arise?" Ahmad (above, left) said in a statement yesterday.

GISBH (Global Ikhwan Services and Business Holdings) is a group that authorities cracked down on earlier this year for alleged deviant practices including those from the banned al-Arqam group.

On Christmas Eve, Nga posted a short video of a celebration held at his ministry, which included carollers singing "Jingle Bells" and "We Wish You a Merry Christmas".

Some Muslim staff were among those present during the celebration, based on the video.

Kicking up a fuss

PAS Youth then kicked up a fuss and accused Nga of not complying with a 2005 National Fatwa Council guideline setting limits on Muslim participation at non-Muslim festive celebrations.

The guideline, among others, states that Muslims are not allowed to attend events with religious decorations such as Christmas trees.

Nga in turn, called PAS extremist bigots.

Ahmad in his statement yesterday, said that Nga's defiance showed disrespect towards Islam and the National Fatwa Council's guidelines.

"Why do Nga and some DAP leaders want to challenge the legitimacy of Islam as the official religion of the federation as is enshrined in the Federal Constitution?

"The ulama council is suspicious of the aggression by DAP leaders in the context of Christmas celebration even though they have been rebuked for years.

"It gives the perception that the allegations that evangelists plan for Malaysia behind the scenes are something that is shaping reality," he added.

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