So Is Islam Hadari To Be Enforced By Whipping Now?


By Farish A. Noor

I am having a tough time writing this particular article as I am absolutely consumed by anger at the moment. In fact, I am livid as I have never been for such a long time.

The reason for this sudden rise in my blood pressure level is that after a two-day seminar organised by the Institute for Islamic Understanding (IKIM) and the Shariah Judiciary Department of Malaysia, it was suggested by some of those who took part that ‘non-Muslims found committing khalwat (close proximity) with Muslims (will) also be held liable’ and that they too will be under threat of punishment. (The Star, Proposal to Persecute Non-Muslims for Khalwat, 3 April 2008) According to the report ‘Syariah Court of Appeal Judge Datuk Mohd Asri Abdullah said the seminar had proposed that non-Muslims committing khalwat with Muslims should also be sentenced accordingly, but in the civil courts.’

Furthermore the participants of the seminar also proposed ‘to impose heftier penalties – of up to four times the current penalties –on Muslims caught for khalwat, prostitution, consuming alcohol and involvement in gambling activities.’

And what might these heftier penalties be? According to the same report ‘Ikim and the department were proposing that the Syariah Courts (Criminal Jurisdiction) Act 1965 (Amendment) 1984 be amended to impose stiffer penalties of RM1,000 fine, or five years’ jail or 12 strokes of the rotan for Syariah Lower Courts and RM20,000 fine, or 10years’ jail or 24 strokes of rotan for Syariah High Courts’. It then added that ‘there was also a proposal for Syariah judges to enforce whipping for these offences’ and that ‘another proposal calls for the establishment of a rehabilitation centre for those convicted of offences related to morals and faith such as prostitution and effeminate men, and enforcement of Section 54 of the Syariah Criminal Offences Act (Act 559) to set up such centres’.

So this, apparently, is what the great minds of IKIM and the religious departments have been cooking up and intending to serve to us, the Malaysian public, all along. While Muslims are angry about the portrayal of Islam and Muslims in the film ‘Fitna’ by the right-wing Dutch politician Geert Wilders, one is left with the question: As long as Muslim leaders and intellectuals remain stuck in their morass of outdated conservative thinking, would it not remain the case that Islam is seen as a religious of violence? How, pray tell, can scholars like me defend the image of Islam and Muslims when Muslim governments like ours allows such outlandish and dangerous ideas to spread, and harbour such proponents of conservative-fundamentalist Islam in the very same institutions that were meant to open up the minds of Muslims and lead us – and Malaysian society – to a more modern, progressive and liberated understanding of Islam and religion in general?

The fact that such proposals could have been made at all speaks volumes about the state of Muslim thinking in Malaysia today. Worse still is the total disconnect between reality and ideals, and the fact that some of these Muslim thinkers fail to see just how unjust, inhuman and dehumanising these proposed punishments are in the eyes of millions of other Malaysians and foreigners alike. Whipping? In this day and age? And what would happen to the image of Malaysia as the so-called bastion of moderate Islam when the international media gets a glimpse of this non-so-moderate Islam at work? Is Islam Hadari to be enforced by the whip today?

The results of the recent general elections have shown that the Malaysian public has reached a level of political awareness and maturity that is unprecedented in our history. It also points to an increasingly urbanised, well-connected, better-informed and more politically-conscious electorate that will not be satisfied with empty slogans of a more ‘moderate’ Islam and theme parks with crystal mosques. Why, even in the ranks of the Pan-Malaysian Islamic Party (PAS) there are more and more progressive voices who are calling for real economic and structural reform, and contemplating the possibility of creating a new social contract based on a welfare state model for all Malaysians.

But it is in the ranks of UMNO and the UMNO-led institutions of the state that we see the mental quagmire of the elite at its worst. IKIM and the Shariah Judiciary Department are both institutions that were created under the auspices of the UMNO-led government. Yet the so-called reforms we have been presented are not intended to open up the minds of Muslims, but rather to add yet another layer of moral policing on Muslim society today.

More worrying is the fact that now the scope of UMNO’s Islamisation policy has extended to cover non-Muslims as well, and this can only be read as yet another attempt to impose Islamic legal and political hegemony on the non-Muslims of Malaysia. How and why should a non-Muslim be taken to court for simply being in love with a Muslim? And why, for that matter, should a Muslim be punished for simply loving a non-Muslim? Furthermore the non-Muslim partner in such a relationship may not even regard it as wrong to simply be in love with another. Yet the advocates of this reform are suggesting that he or she has committed a sin even if he or she has not done anything wrong according to his or her belief system.

This in turn points to the slow erosion of respect for diversity and pluralism in Malaysia, where a group of Muslim communitarians do not seem realise the fact that Islam is simply one of many belief-systems in Malaysia and that the values of Islam may not be relevant to those who are not part of that faith community. Yet by calling for these legal reforms, these sectarian leaders seem to be implying that what constitutes an offence for Muslims must also constitute an offence for others too. How does this communitarian slant fit with the universalist and pluralist claims of Islam Hadari then?

That such a conference could have been held so close after UMNO’s disastrous showing at the recent elections would indicate that this UMNO-led government is totally bankrupt of ideas and can only shore up what little support it has left by playing the Islamic card and pandering to the gallery yet again. Moral policing of any kind is just one further layer of policing on society, and this is fundamentally part and parcel of the state’s attempt to remain in power at all costs. The net result would be the further control of Malaysian society as a whole and the costs will be borne by those Malaysians who are Malaysian-minded enough to see beyond race and religion, and to cross these cultural-religious frontiers by falling in love with others. Instead it is those very Malaysian-Minded Malaysians who are under threat now, by laws and regulations that make it virtually impossible for us to love one another and live with one another.

Finally, this is further proof that the so-called ‘moderate and progressive’ brand of Islam that was sold to us as ‘Islam Hadari’ was little more than another UMNO propaganda device; serving to placate the concerns of the international community while in fact serving only to extend the power and hegemony of the state at home. Should these reform measures come to pass, it is our duty to remind ourselves, our fellow Malaysians and the international community that what passes under the label of Islam Hadari is really a conservative brand of statist Islam that promotes imprisonment, detention, moral policing and whipping. Let the cameras of the international media come to Malaysia to film the spectacle of Malaysians being arrested, detained in rehabilitation centres, whipped and injured for life by the morality police and religious authorities. Let the whole world know that ‘Islam Hadari’ has never opened up the minds of Muslims. Let us expose this lie once and for all, and the liars behind the lie as well.

  1. #1 by ShiokGuy on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 11:57 am

    The Law has to be amended for it to take effect.
    See how the BN is championing it, and see how PR is opposing it.

    Regards
    ShiokGuy
    http://shiokguy.blogspot.com/

    P/S April is autism awareness month, visit my blog for detail

  2. #2 by yellow on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 11:58 am

    The islamic state is a dead-end.

    http://www.csmonitor.com/2008/0402/p01s01-usgn.html

  3. #3 by HJ Angus on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 12:01 pm

    To take the concept further, why not install camers in hotels so as to collect evidence of the evil deed so it will be easier to punish the sinners?

    Absolutely absurd promoters of the religion. In fact khalwat should be ignored as it does promote goodwill between the Malays and others and it seems religion can also be a barrier to better relations between the masses.

    Since these religious authorities are so zealous against the non-Muslims, they should insist that the government does not allocate money for their use that has been collected from the non-Muslims.
    That would be a fair deal.

  4. #4 by taikohtai on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 12:05 pm

    It is just so sad that Islamic practices tend to get stuck at earthly conventional stage. Hence, they are often subject to all sorts of interpretation, dictated by whoever is more powerful politically.

    Unless such practices, regardless of whether they are Islamic, Christian, Hindu or even Buddhist are able to transcend conventional wisdom, the world as we know it will always be in strife.

    A simple example perhaps might throw a bit more light on what constitute conventional and ultimate wisdom:
    Say someone found a lost wallet. That person could do any of the three things (and more…)
    1. Finder’s keeper
    2. Keep the wallet if there is no chance of being found out.
    3. Look for the rightful owner and return it to him/her.

    Some people might think there is not much difference between 1,2 and 3.
    I hope you are not one of them.

  5. #5 by Godfather on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 12:13 pm

    I say let them proceed. Let them try to amend the civil laws to punish non-Muslims caught for contravening syariah law. It will be the end of the BN as we know it. It will not even need the next elections to have a new federal government.

  6. #6 by Godfather on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 12:26 pm

    I think we should not generalise that the proposals reflect current “Muslim thinking”. They reflect the thinking of a small bunch of bureaucrats who are out of touch with reality.

    If the government acts on these proposals, then it will be firstly the death knell for the BN. Like rats scurrying from a sinking ship, MPs from UMNO and other component parties will simply cross over to Pakatan Rakyat. Zaid Ibrahim, probably the most liberal of the current UMNO line-up, will be amongst the first to abandon ship.

  7. #7 by lakilompat on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 12:28 pm

    When religion become a law this will offend other religion because religion itself is not united it is diverse, how can we unite the past into a box when the box itself can’t fit in the mass.

    When the law become too strict those who suffer is the poor Rakyat not the rich and powerful rakyat. It a crime against their own race, the power & rich put pressure on the poor so that the poor can submit & become their slaves.

    Kelantan & Terengganu is a product of religion, they have the best mosque and the best ulama, and they are still the same in term of world class religion center. How do the Kelantanese & Terengganus lived? is there jobs opportunity for them? do they have more choices? is there any progressive economic development? is they any skyscrapper or quality car on the street? why they don’t deserve the best quality products, and improvement? What they are getting is basic item because in the religion teaching moderate life is the best. Meaning we don’t have to seek for improvement as long as we are self sufficient.

  8. #8 by k1980 on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 12:40 pm

    Islam Hadhali is actually the version practiced by the ruling Wahabbite class of Saudi Arabia, marked by narrow, strict and close-minded interpretations of Islam with an intolerant view of other religions. However, there is a cloud with a silver lining— when the dozing mullah gets dumped by umno, his idiotic sect will ride into the sunset with him

  9. #9 by max2811 on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 12:45 pm

    The Dutch was right.

  10. #10 by ktteokt on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 12:50 pm

    If it had not been because of Islam, I think the Malay race i Malaysia would have “pupus” long ago. Just ask how many Malay girls actually want to get married to Malay men! It is because the non-Malays especially the Chinese refuse to be “kacang lupakan kulit” in forgetting their ancestors and foregoing their surnames that they do not want to be converted for just marrying Malay girls.

    Strict enforcement of the Islamic religion was the only way to ensure perpetuity of the Malay race in Malaysia!!!

  11. #11 by harrisonbinhansome on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 12:51 pm

    Their God must be crazy.

  12. #12 by drmaharajahrk on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 12:51 pm

    after all the non muslims are kafirs – they are non believers. Non believers are gone cases…

    the muslims however are learned people, they know what their religion allows and doesnt allow. they have good values and what not.

    So if they have sexual relationships with Kafir’s they need to not only be charged in the Syariah Court but they also have to be taken for rehabilitation as in the case of Revathi to their rehabilitation camp in Ulu Yam.

    They should be then taught religious values there for 6 mth to one year before being released to the public again……….

  13. #13 by gofortruth on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 12:57 pm

    At the end of the day, Jesus words ring loud & clear “Judge a tree by its fruit, a good tree bears good fruits but “.
    In the eyes of the world, what kind of fruit is Islam bearing?

  14. #14 by pulau_sibu on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 12:57 pm

    >the participants of the seminar also proposed ‘to impose heftier penalties – of up to four times the current penalties –on Muslims caught for khalwat, prostitution, consuming alcohol and involvement in gambling activities.’

    For corruption should be 10 times more severe punishments

    UMNO is definitely more PAS than PAS

    If it is bad law, don’t impose it on muslims as well. Bad law should be abolished.

  15. #15 by gofortruth on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 1:00 pm

    Oops
    At the end of the day, Jesus words ring loud & clear “Judge a tree by its fruit, a good tree bears good fruits but a bad tree bears bad fruits” “.
    In the eyes of the world, what kind of fruit is Islam bearing? Fear? Anger? Hatred? Violence?

  16. #16 by NotProudToBeMalaysian on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 1:13 pm

    Islam Hadari is only useful for Taliban.
    Dare to tell me all Umno ministers are very faithful and have never involve in any sorts of khalwat, consume alcohol or gambling?
    Look after your back first before you teach others.
    http://www.unc.edu/depts/diplomat/item/2006/1012/palm/palmer_malaysia.html

  17. #17 by JDoe on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 1:16 pm

    Why not propose to close-shop of Genting? After all those taxes that they pay are “sin” money.

  18. #19 by yellow on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 1:18 pm

    Rotan is probably is one of their ways for punishing us for their election loss. I propose that we be pro-active, march to Putrajaya, expose our butts to them and demand to be caned.

  19. #20 by bukanbumi on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 1:19 pm

    The problem is, this UMNO Putra tries to follow their Islamic Law 1001 %. But this should only applies to Umno Muslims, because no other Muslims in other Islamic countries have a special unit of “peeping toms” to try to peep on couples in the park, hotel rooms, in the cars etc. except in UMNO ruled country.

    They try to Make Malaysia the Grand Champion of Islam.

  20. #21 by harrisonbinhansome on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 1:27 pm

    While I really beleive Islam as a religion of pure piety and sinless if that is fully streched to it’s original pratice, the lunatics are intepreting the said religions to a schism of murderous complicities such as beleiving in killing of the Jews as sanctioned by God.

    This is not about Islam, it’s lunacy. The IRA was another instances in the Christian creed.

  21. #22 by darren sky on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 1:35 pm

    Something to ponder ! Why is it since the ban of Muslim from buying 4D and all the sign boards prohibiting it.Have we ever hear any one got caught or operation being carried out??Believe it or not at anytime you visit these 4D outlets you will definitely find more Muslim than Non Muslim.
    Why no enforcement?? The answer is simple- People from the religious department and UMNO also Raja Tikam.Talking about hypocrite..

  22. #23 by k1980 on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 1:36 pm

    The Altantuya C4 case has very good lawyers

    Q: What’s the difference between a good lawyer and a bad lawyer?

    A: A bad lawyer can let a case drag out for several years. A good lawyer can make it last even longer.

  23. #24 by lkt-56 on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 1:40 pm

    …The fact that such proposals could have been made at all speaks volumes about the state of Muslim thinking in Malaysia today. Worse still is the total disconnect between reality and ideals, and the fact that some of these Muslim thinkers fail to see just how unjust, inhuman and dehumanising these proposed punishments are in the eyes of millions of other Malaysians and foreigners alike. Whipping? In this day and age? And what would happen to the image of Malaysia as the so-called bastion of moderate Islam when the international media gets a glimpse of this non-so-moderate Islam at work? Is Islam Hadari to be enforced by the whip today?…

    I can understand the writer’s (Farish Noor) frustration. Perhaps the government of Prime Minister Abdullah Badawi should look into the people who are in IKLIM. Are they politicians or learned religious teachers/scholars?

    My observation as a person who is not committed to any religion is that a truly religious person will not judge his fellow men, let alone try to put in place all kinds of rules to control another human being. Is he forgetting that he is as flawed as anuone else here?

    A truly truly religious person will be GOD fearing and would emulate his Almighty which means he will not play judge to his fellow men. ;)

    I have viewed the 16 minutes video “Fitna” and I have to admit that it is shocking. I am waititng for a response from the learned muslim scholars to give the world their view/interpretation on the various quranic verses quoted in the video to portray Islam as a religion of violence.

    Calls by our muslim leaders to boycott Dutch goods, etc. is not going to educate the world…. Perhaps the learned scholars of IKLIM can take up this challenge…. ;)

  24. #25 by i_love_malaysia on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 1:43 pm

    If they have their way, there wont be any more pigs (sorry to all pork lovers!!!), dogs (no more help for hunting, guide dogs for blinds and drug sniffer!!), non-muslims and other sinful creatures in this world!!! they will help to search and destroy all of them and gain the highest place in heaven!!! they will claim that they are “helping” their god (I cant use the word Allah here as I’m not qualified as I’m not a muslim!!!) to cleanse the world and the end day comes earlier!!!

  25. #26 by NotProudToBeMalaysian on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 1:51 pm

    Eliminate the Mat Rempit first.
    Wayside robbery, snatch theft, smoking, consuming alcohol, khalwat, gang raping, gambling and so on.
    All these acts are against Islam Hadari!

  26. #27 by Godfather on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 1:57 pm

    This blog is not a place to disparage Islam – or any religion for that matter.

  27. #28 by soggie on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 1:57 pm

    I believe this can be turned into an attempt to undermine the People’s Alliance, by driving a wedge between PAS and DAP. It is actually quite simple, in the sense that all UMNO has to do is to come out with an Islamic policy that suits PAS’s tastes while making DAP barf, then fight for it vehemently in the Parliament. PAS will then be stuck in a dilemma – to support it means long-term troubles with DAP and could even splinter the alliance, while to reject it will paint them as hypocrites which UMNO can use as ammunition in the next general election.

    http://www.rendervault.com/2008/04/03/khalwat-laws-to-be-imposed-upon-non-muslims/

  28. #29 by i_love_malaysia on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 1:57 pm

    Be very very careful with muslim friends of the opposite sex in the near future, if you are not careful, you might be accused of khalwat even if you are just trying to be helpful by sending he/she home in your car (please ensure that he/she is not sitting besides you!!!). Dont play play!!

  29. #30 by pwcheng on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 2:10 pm

    Umno is just a creepy party, portraying itself as a saint but with the burning desire of a devil. They will do everything for their survival, and destroying the country is an option for them, if required to do so. They play the racial and religious cards to their heels and yet they have the cheek to tell others racialist. All these extreme racial intonations are with their knowledge and advertently with their blessings. They keep mum because they want to enjoy the best of both worlds. They want to please the Muslims who are mostly Malays for political considerations as they form the majority; to win their votes and at the same time think that the non-Muslims and many fair minded Malays are fools. They do know that we and many opened minded Malays are fed up or sick of all these religious their political maneuvers and yet they keep mum.

    There are a lot of doings by the little Napoleons who deliver hatred to the government and yet they pretend not to know anything. A blind man will know that they are condoning all these, Corruption, Misgovernance, Mismanagement, Misfeasance, unreasonable Bumi quotas and a hoard of nonsense.

    That is UMNO and they have been bluffing most of us for 50 over years until March the 8th.. They must be wiped off before they destroy the people.

  30. #31 by drmaharajahrk on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 2:12 pm

    Uncle Lim,

    The Hindus would like to have Hindu laws and a Hindu court in Penang. We also want Hindu banking and ” nilai nilai murni agama Hindu ” in work places where Hindus form the majority.

    Like wise I think the Christians also want a Christian Court and Christian banking, a Buddhist court and Buddhist laws for Buddhists and Buddhist banking system.

    I mean be fair to everyone la………please try to accomodate

  31. #32 by danchungs on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 2:25 pm

    Well well well this zahid hamidi is the person shoud never say khalwat…. Ask himself what he had done ? I am just curios why they dont double up the prize of becoming good islam and rather they thinking of double the fine,punishment and jail term. Out of my first impression Islam should be a beautiful religion but not in Malaysia after our bodowi promote his hadhari where is so bias and misuse….WTF UMNO KICK OUT THAT BODOWI

  32. #33 by kingkenny on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 2:39 pm

    “indicate that this UMNO-led government is totally bankrupt of ideas and can only shore up what little support it has left by playing the Islamic card” – Farish A Noor

    The above statement led me to think that, and what is maybe in many other Malaysian’s mind, that certainly UMNO is in a tremendous state of fear. By way of playing the Islamic card, UMNO seems convinced that their future lies in the hands of fellow Muslims in the country, simply because they make up the majority of population.

    Maybe, what Malaysians say about AAB, that he is a “gangster PM yang pantang dicabar” is somewhat true. From a non-Muslim perspective like me, who is also a normal tax-paying citizen, I felt being bullied and threatened. Because, it seems like they are segregating the Pure and the Sinners and to build a bridge of fire between them. To suppress our interactions & our minds.

    I must say that I felt sad for our fellow Muslims. One day, UMNO say this is the rule, DO IT, the next day, UMNO will say, “Oh! we changed the rule, you MUST go the other way now”!

    It is like a badminton match between 2 UMNO players, and the shuttlecock is our fellow Muslims. They are being treated like kids, commodities, stocks for heaven’s sake. Muslims are intelligent if they want to be, and might not get tricked by this kind of nonsense, but it is really pathetic that UMNO has decided to even ‘TRY’!

    Even Indonesia allowed intermarriages between different faiths including Islam because they know religion should be accepted and embraced and not forced upon. They have so much more respect for intellectual beings! Can the same be said of UMNO in regard of their fellow Muslims?!

    This is not Islam Hadhari, this is Islam “Had 7 Hari Saja”!

    AAB + BN OUT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

  33. #34 by cheng on soo on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 2:53 pm

    how about doctor / patient, or nurse / patient, must they be same sex only, otherwise KHALWAT!

  34. #35 by kingkenny on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 3:06 pm

    Our Muslim friends are better ambassadors of their religion than AAB-led UMNO!

    I have many Muslim friends in KL who always invited me to buka puasa with them during Ramadhan. And I enjoyed the atmosphere when I go ‘ta pau’ with them in the streets of Raja Chulan and Kampung Baru. It is they who introduced to me many exotic Malay foods to me, before I only know about nasi lemak and satay and some ‘gorengs’ to be frank.

    Eye opening experience for me because I thoroughly enjoyed eating masak merah, serunding daging, nasi kerabu, percik, masak cili api, rendang negeri sembilan, telur dadar and many more (aiyaa…hungry laa now).

    So if can ah, someone please ask that Mr. Bodowi to come visit this site here because I have this question to ask him:

    “DARI ZAMAN MANA U DATANG? MANGKUK!”

  35. #36 by Anti_NEP on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 3:21 pm

    I used to have discussions and meetings with my malay female staff in my office and quite often we have to go out to meet clients in the same car. Is this being considered as khalwat?

    If so then i have no choice but to sack her for this stupid simple reason. She is capable and hardworking. Is IKIM going to compensate her for losing her job?

  36. #37 by kingkenny on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 3:26 pm

    And a friendly reminder to our new Pakatan Rakyat:

    Don’t leave out TDM also. Even though that old ‘half-half’ is retired, he is still a liability to Malaysians and Malaysians’ future.

    We all know what he did for a modern Malaysia, but we also know what he did for his pockets, and how he used the ISA to full effects!

    But, to be honest, his shelve life has expired, we need to move on and can be done away with that twisting tonque of his! We don’t need a saviour like him, we need advancement and improvement beyond his achievements – and someone to REALLY take Malaysia to a NEW LEVEL.

    YB LKS…..isolate him.

    If we are united in isolating him, “then it will be effective!”….what he teach us to do, we can use it back on him!

  37. #38 by Bigjoe on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 3:54 pm

    I truly symphatize with Dr. Noor. He has spend a lifetime trying to intellectually lead Malays and Muslim in general and he finds that the very people he is trying to help not just does not support him but literally shoot themselves with their own mouth.

    He belongs to a dysfunctional group that he is trying to be so idealistic and hopeful but all they do is drag him down.

  38. #39 by lakilompat on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 4:04 pm

    Will there be a time Malaysian can cheers out loud just like the time we won the Thomas Cup in 1992.

    To see Malaysian footballers participating in olympic like the team participated by Santokh Singh, the late Mokhtar Dahari, Soh Chin Aun and R.Arumugam in 1980 Olympic. These heroes were teached in English, after that Malaysia education drop. Our young football players can’t even beat Vietnam or Myanmar now, because they were teach using BM. During their time school time there is no BM and no Islam Hadhari.

  39. #40 by lakilompat on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 4:15 pm

    Islam Hadhari shouldn’t be the focus, the leader should focus on something like the Singapore success story:-

    There was a time when people said
    That Singapore won’t make it, but we did
    There was a time when troubles seemed too much
    For us to take, but we did
    We built a nation, strong and free, reaching out together
    For peace and harmony

    Chorus 1:
    This is my country, this is my flag
    This is my future, this is my life
    This is my family, these are my friends
    We are Singapore, Singaporeans

    Singapore our homeland, it’s here that we belong
    All of us united, one people marching on
    We’ve come so far together, our common destiny
    Singapore forever, a nation strong and free

    ( Repeat Chorus 1 )

    ( Sung )

    We the citizens of Singapore
    Pledge ourselves as one united people
    Regardless of race, language or religion
    To build a democratic society
    Based on justice and equality
    So as to achieve happiness
    Prosperity and progress for our nation

    Chorus 2:
    We are Singapore, we are Singapore
    We will stand together, hear the lion roar
    We are Singapore, we are Singapore
    We’re a nation strong and free forevermore

    ( Repeat Chorus 1 & 2 )

    We are Singapore, Singaporeans ( X 2 )

    I’m a Malaysian, talented and proud, I’m a chinese, the Malay and Indian are my friend but I don’t feel the leader encourage unity, my Indian friends are been jailed (ISA Hindraf 5) and my malay friends were told to protest the NEP & protest the MB appointment.

    Should we shift our focus to national unity, to move forward or on religion agendas? is religion agenda more important than national interest?

  40. #41 by lakilompat on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 4:24 pm

    Some leader (Nazri) argued that Singapore been a small nation unable for corruption, how about China? With Islam Hadhari, it will encourage corruption, if a man is caught in the car with a Malay girl subordinates. Should Malay women or ladies be discriminated from engaging in business with male colleague of other race? Or they should lay down and enjoy waiting for their Malay husband.

    Islam Hadhari discriminates Malay lady it alienates them to come close to non Malay. That also mean Siti Nurhaliza, Dayang, and female malay artist cant shake hand with non malay. As a result, non malay in Malaysia will be discriminated to be close or together with Malay. Chinese students & Indian students must sit far away from Malay students can’t touch them to borrow an eraser or sharpener. This is a law to alienates the race rather than a law to unite them.

    Conclusion, when religion become law, others suffers.

  41. #42 by Godson on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 4:29 pm

    Mmmmm…….i think i better keep my distance. Dont be close to muslim and muslim please dont come close to me. I takut kena tangkap. Nanti kena rotan. OK???

    My friends have muslim friends and i think i better warn them. I takut they kena tangkap and nanti kena rotan. Wonder this will happen in Sarawak……..i better warn them before its too late.

    KEEP YOUR DISTANCE PLEASE.
    I DONT WANT ANY TROUBLE.
    OK!!!

  42. #43 by malaysiaalwaysboleh on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 4:31 pm

    Hey guys,

    DAP is not much different. They still do play race based politics okay.

    Check this post out. It’s called “Is DAP really for all Malaysians?”

    http://myoe.wordpress.com/2008/04/04/is-dap-really-for-all-malaysians/

  43. #44 by Godson on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 4:37 pm

    bodohwi and his gang are moving all over Malaysia to say their last farewel. GOODBYE BN SUPP UMNO. TIME TO GO. BN UMNO, enjoy your fight.

  44. #45 by pkrisnin on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 4:41 pm

    UMNO just want to widen the gap between Malays and other races by doing this, why its so they can remain in power.
    But these are unless tactics, most Malays are beginning to see this and voting for opposition. A new Malaysian race is emerging, not Malay, Chinese, Indian or any other but Malaysian, UMNO’s worst nightmare

  45. #46 by lakilompat on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 4:43 pm

    We have our own song as well, but leaders, UMNOputras has forgotten

    This song is sing when I’m in standard 6 during perhimpunan mingguan.

    Demi negara yang tercinta
    (Malaysian love their country, they made the right vote)
    Dicurahkan bakti penuh setia
    Demi raja yang disanjung tinggi
    (UMNOputras boycott MB appointment & shows of disrespect to Sultan “Kami nak Idris, Natang”)
    Kesetiaan tak berbelah bagi
    (Opposition state & Ruling state)
    Kepada pemimpin, kepada rakyat
    Nikmati beri penuh taat
    (Cronies get the most out of Malaysian pocket. Fuel price, food price, and cooking oild)
    Sama bekerja, sama berusaha
    Setia berkhidmat, untuk semua
    Rela berkorban, apa sahaja
    Amanah bangsa tetap dijaga
    Kami berkhidmat, untuk setia
    Untuk agama, bangsa dan negara
    (the religion, and race till today is a question mark?)

  46. #47 by i_love_malaysia on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 4:50 pm

    I wonder why some of my comments in certain post were deleted without trace i.e. not even with the word deleted!!! is there something wrong with the system or it is another form of censorship here???

  47. #48 by Bobster on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 5:08 pm

    Well, it is ok for the super rich to rob millions and billions for ringgit from the rakyat. It is not ok for rakyat to commit personal sins though it’s btw you and God.

    Anyway, don’t get caught up with this Ikim and SJDM. They are just tools used by BN to stir s**t out of the whole country. Don’t criticize others religion. Criticize those who manipulate religion for own hidden agendas.

  48. #49 by Bobster on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 5:11 pm

    Hope some enlighten religious scholars can rebuke those BN religious goons. We rakyat especially from other races and religion can say too much else will be accused of stirring sentiment.

  49. #50 by Samuel Goh Kim Eng on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 5:22 pm

    Let’s watch out for our basic rights and their rapid erosion
    On top of which may be newly added measures of unwanted corrosion
    Making all wonder if there’ll be serious unneccessary collision
    When there are foolish attempts to be guardians of moral collusion

    (C) Samuel Goh Kim Eng – 040408
    http://MotivationInMotion.blogspot.com
    http://msi.Rocky101.com
    Fri. 4th April 2008.

  50. #51 by petestop on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 5:24 pm

    Why don’t IKIM goes after animal torturer like ex-Kota Kinabalu mayor, Datuk abdul Ghani Rashid… since they seem got too much free time on their hands. I’m sure that Islam is against sadistic treatment of animals.

    What kind of animal would treat horses like this:
    http://www.malaysia-today.net/2008/content/view/5497/1/

    I wonder why Sabahan keeps voting such sadist and sinners into position of power.

    Wake up, Sabahan! The rest of Malaysian already rejected this kind of rot and sinfulness in BN.

  51. #52 by Joetan on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 5:37 pm

    Islam Hadari profess by UMNO breeds all those Islam extremist in Malaysia. Its boils my blood to see our hard earn money go toward paying the salary of all these extremists. These extremist is getting bolder as each day pass by. They wants to made themselves look holyier than the rest by imposing all those ridiculous islamic laws not only on muslims but now on non muslims. Some of these holy men do not mind being involved in corruption (a sin in Islam )especially the syariah court judges who were being found guilty of it. As long as they can come out with silly rules which makes themselves look holyier than the rest they are proud of it.

  52. #53 by lakilompat on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 5:57 pm

    I’m sry to tell you Bob, there is no law to protect the poor & weak. The poor & weak country will get sanction by rich & powerful country, this is always the norms in real life. Internationally, law is govern by the rich & powerful, the nation which are weak & cruel in term of leadership but rich in term of resources, will be in the casualty list.

    Since majority of Malaysian is made up by Malay, obviously it is govt. primary objective to scrutinize the Malay and marginalized the female malay so that the female can lay down and enjoy the sanction (not to mingle around with non malay). The male Malay can easily divorce 1 or 2 wife thru sms “talak” this is considered OK at the expense of Malay female.

  53. #54 by Evenmind on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 6:05 pm

    Umnoites have now grown from being moronic to senile, they have run out of ideas , so this is it , after this non muslims will also be presecuted during the fasting month if they eat in public during the the fasting hours ala Pakistan .

  54. #55 by k1980 on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 6:13 pm

    Very strange that the malaysian govt has not condemned these 8 psychos
    http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/uk/crime/article3672067.ece

  55. #56 by route_48 on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 6:47 pm

    If you want to prosecute other believers from other religions for ‘close poximity’ then sit down with the other religions leaders and see what are their type of punishment according to their religion. Then it is fair for every party. If you want to use the civil court then use the civil court for every religion including Islam. Fair is fair. With this changing world we cannot avoid ‘close proximity’ due to various reasons.

    Example, If I happened to see a beautiful girl and wanted to get aquainted and got close to her, but I did not know she is a Muslim because she’s not wearing ‘tudung’ but only jeans and T-shirt. Then we are charge for ‘close proximity’, is it fair on my side?

    Maybe, Syariah, before passing this law should pass another law first. That is for every muslim to have a notice infront and back that says ‘Be warned, I am a Muslim, keep your distant if you are of the opposite gender’. And it should be mandatory for every Muslim young or old including those from other countries even tourist so that non-Muslim would know they are Muslim and can avoid from being too close.

    ANYWAY, let the person with NO SINs at all cast the first stone on other sinners. Admit it, we are all sinners. None of us are qualify to cast the first stone except GOD. May GOD strike down ignorance and those who refuse to move forward and adjust religiously according to time.

  56. #57 by kickbutt on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 7:29 pm

    “ANYWAY, let the person with NO SINs at all cast the first stone on other sinners. Admit it, we are all sinners.”

    Watch it! You don’t call limkamput a sinner!

  57. #58 by One4All4One on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 9:17 pm

    We all seem to always forget the basic and fundamental principle of Freedom.

    Freedom as it should be is the inalienable, inherent and God-given right of EVERY man (woman included, of course) to be what he/she wants to be or do. Of course with the condition of not harming or hurting another soul in his quest.

    Man is clever enough to be himself and should be allowed to be himself. None can intefere with his being himself.

    Rules and regulations happen to be conditions imposed in a controlled environment, and as such is ‘artificial’. As long as one does not bother with the rules, the rules should not bother him.

    We often forgot about Nature, to which we belong , just like any other naturally found entities. And nature has its rules, to which we conform naturally.

    To say so , of course is not to advocate the law of the jungle. Mankind is of a higher order, and has an intrinsic desire to understand his being, though of course bound by certain limititations.

    As for religion, it should be left to the individual, upon reaching adulthood, to seek and understand its significance to his own existence. We are not living in a primitive envoronment. Man is capable of discerning right from wrong; evil from good; current vs archaic; coloured vs. pure; truth from falsehood. And time would attest to all what and which had been done.

    Let us not be hypocrite in our own midst. If we do not know better, it would just be wise to let the other person who knows better to answer. LEt us be honest , very honest about what we can and what we can’t be.

    Let’s not abuse religions and beliefs for our own benefit. It is because of this misguided and selfish stand which brought about untold miseries and misunderstanding among man.

    Had those people who vied for power of position and influence been sincere, honest, responsible, truthful, there would be much, much lesser problems and strife happening around us.

    Let us hope that good sense would prevail in our beloved country.
    We are One. United we stand, Divided we fall.

    It is funny. Malaysian leaders travelled far and wide to promote peace and harmony. However, in our very own backyard, members from opposition political parties, though ‘sama-sama’ malaysians, are treated as aliens and enemies who are to be run down at any cost. And the enmity is so real and unbearable at times.

    Come on people. Just different political parties only what. Aren’t you guys professing to work for the good of the country? Why bicker among yourselves? Shame on you! Grow up man. It is just a game you guys are playing. Be gentleman enough to accept defeat. And be magnanimous enough in victory. Shake hands after the ‘game’ (election) and proceed to do your respective work. Don’t sulk, nor be arrogant.

    Well, enough of analysis after analysis had been made of the GE2008 (3/8). A loss is a loss. If you wish to win again, try again lah the next time. Do your homework , be really good, and the rest will take care of itself.

    THere is so much to be done. THe people at large are expecting results. They need help and assistance; making a living is hard enough, don’t make it harder. Some would have it easier for reasons they know better. But not all, the majority of them in fact, do not have it easy. THey have to slog day in day out. Give them a hand.

    Hey guys, BN or PR, go around hug one another. Be friends. THe divide between you guys is an artificial one. Don’t lose your senses over politicking. Are’nt you guys suppose to be working for all of us? IF you fight so much, you won’t have much time to do your work. Now that you fellows have different states to manage, it seems more reasonable and sensible. Just politicking and not working (administrating and running the states) would be too easy. Likewise, just working and less politiking makes politics boring.

    Well…good luck to all of you.

  58. #59 by kickbutt on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 9:41 pm

    Hug Lebai Kamal bin Put??? Errr…pass on that one. I cannot stand the smell of belacan.

  59. #60 by Loyal Malaysian on Friday, 4 April 2008 - 10:44 pm

    Ahh…! What a refreshing breath of fresh air!!
    But the problem is that it is the fanatical idiots at the Institute for Islamic Understanding (IKIM) and the Shariah Judiciary Department of Malaysia that are running the show.

  60. #61 by cemerlang on Saturday, 5 April 2008 - 12:01 am

    Barisan Nasional is a ticking time bomb and should be blasted into smithereens.

  61. #62 by cheeran70 on Saturday, 5 April 2008 - 12:51 am

    Really weird, ‘aneh’ that while the world is striving to find a solution for the violence across the world, in Malaysia, the so-called Muslim scholars in Malaysia wasted their time and people’s money to discuss a method to punish non-Muslims over the issue of khalwat. What is Islam actually? The way this people doing things in Malaysia it appears that Islam places emphasis only on curbing sexual misconducts and nothing else. Please idiots do not degrade this religion of Islam by your strange behaviours or shall I call it ‘sikap aneh’?

  62. #63 by I Malaysian on Saturday, 5 April 2008 - 1:33 am

    Visit http://www.no2umno.blogspot.com for shocking news. Mahathir who talks big actually had written a letter asking favor from former PM of Isreal Ehud Barak. Topic Surat Kontroversi 1999

  63. #64 by leealex24 on Saturday, 5 April 2008 - 1:39 am

    Sometimes, these people who come up with such bizarre recommendations puzzles me. When the country is now thinking of how to face Globalization and reinvent in facing real challenges in Economy and Politics, here you have these group of people who propose such discriminatory and conservative policies. The past few weeks and months, we have been talking about “Bangsa Malaysia” and elimination of racial politics, such proposal would only cause discontent among non-Muslims and Muslims even. Further, I believe if such measures are taken, there would be even greater dis-unity among racial groups. How are we to tackle the inevitable challenges ahead? Please guys, let not this happen – we’re already on a right track. Pakatan Rakyat, we’re counting on you to bring this up in your parliament discussion to the federal government.

  64. #65 by Justhis on Saturday, 5 April 2008 - 3:08 am

    Dear En. Farish A. Noor

    As I read along your descriptions of how discussions were held in IKIM I feel the same as you; outdated is the only word fit to described whipping as a proposal.
    Practically consuming alcohol and gambling are both not major issues in Malaysia as I can see.
    But ber-khalwat and prostitution is more commonly reported on news paper.
    Correct me if I am wrong, these are merely acts of physiological imbalance. Correcting out of what they have done will not be any better than to understand why they do it and how they can help themselves to refrain from repeating it. Social Science simply can explain the cause and effect of these acts without any inter religious issues.

    Unluckily, the situation is like a doctor’s daughter if caught consulting another doctor for healing is deemed disgrace.
    Because she portrayed her father for incapable of healing her. Therefore, in outdated thoughts, she should either get healed through her own father’s hands or rather die by classifying incurable than seeking other healing means.

    Who want to be a prostitute if given a choice? There are too many reasons i.e. being too poor, monetary temptations, ignorance, dump by boy friends, feeling of insecure, unskillful, physiology imbalance………….or confused under the outdated teachings since young that resulted her lost in this modern world unguided in time. If given the same chance between a court Judge and a prostitute, who would have done better in live is yet uncertain.
    Basically, prostitution by practice, how frequent have they corrupt national treasures, taking bribery, making false witness, stop no evil with their given positions, depriving justice……….and hurting wheel-chaired in parliament?

    Who want to ber-khalwat if their family lives are full of happiness?
    Tempted? Working pressure? Multi media influences? Lonesome? Feel rejected? …….
    Are them victims or offenders; just as quoted by my Malay friend; kami Muslim sentiasa digodai saitan jadi pergi merogol dan berdosa. (If I can recall correctly it was a question asked about cases of sex abuse within family. It was long-long time ago, where I taken in his explanation partially. However, I dare not ask any Malay friends of this kind of question nowadays to avoid their “easily felt insulted psychology”, which becomes very sensitive ever since “Malaysia Boleh” advocated. Right is no doubt boleh, but wrong pun more boleh; kalau tak boleh go tanya Judge.)

    So, come back to the topic is has not any other means of correcting Muslims other than religious rehabilitation? Is Syariah effective in dealing cases like these? Or they are yet improving (bolehly) by depriving options of rehabilitation from “Victims”?

    Being worse is; how could ber-khalwat with Muslim and non-Muslim can be an issue and make difference on it?
    If indeed passionate they need counseling how they should normalize their relationships.
    Could it be that the society we live in is exerting pressure on them to ber-khalwat with no other normal means?
    But if it is a cheating case then at least one side is victim, who needs help and punishment is only valid to the other side.
    Then Law is to impose fair trial. It does not make a robber who robs a Muslim to subject Syariah court judgement.

    En. Farish please continue your participation in IKIM, be the candle light in dark tunnel under strong wind.
    Help Malaysia.

    Warm regards,
    p.s. count on you

  65. #66 by Evenmind on Saturday, 5 April 2008 - 4:49 am

    IKIM or Sickim whatever is called is preparing Malaysians to enjoy light form of pornography, in a nation where premarital sex is a taboo. ,how sick can these bus full of tards Be ?

  66. #67 by azribohari on Saturday, 5 April 2008 - 6:25 am

    Greetings everyone,

    We should understand that their is no such thing as “conservative” or “modern” Islam. There is only one Islam. Whether u take Islam or not. There is no grey area. Its is a comprehensive way of life, not merely a religion with specific rituals.

    I am proudly a devout muslim, who believes that Islam is the true “religion” (as u guys say..). And on behalf of my fellow muslims in UMNO, i beg for forgiveness. (Although, I dont support any specific party. But more towards Pakatan Rakyat. =) ). I understand that your hatred towards Islam is caused by muslims who does not portray the true teachings of Islam. i apologize again. Don’t worry, the true Islam will rise. It is mentioned by our prophet that Islam will indeed go through a difficult period (like what u can see know). It is approaching the end of the world. But in the end, peace will prevail and the true Islam will once again, appear in this world. I have no doubts about that. No matter what Islam-haters do, the day will come. Don’t be afraid. Go back into history, when Islam is at its peak. About how great was their economy (no poor people, govt. had so much money, they sponsor young people to get married, etc). How peaceful it was. Islam respects others. Like mentioned in the Quran, “there is no compulsion (to enter) Islam”.

    Let me ask you. Do u know what khalwat means? Khalwat is an act where two people of the opposite gender (who are not married) who are in close proximity in a suspicious environment. This is to prevent adultery. Well, being in a lonely environment, where there is no one else (except the two individuals), hugging, kissing, sitting close together), the tendency to commit adultery is high (not to say everyone is like that). So, islam respects the dignity of women, and it applies rules as a prevention. For example, Islam asks to cut the hands of theif (if found guilty / or if they surrender themselves). If it is applied, will people dare to steal? We’ll see an environment where people dont have to lock their bicycles, or gates. no pick pocket. Islam prohibits interests (in banking). So, the low income community will not suffer. Islam allows stoning of married people who commit adultery. Because they commit the crime, although they are legally married. Can’t u see how bad it is (the crime)? To punish someone, its not that easy (must have 4 reliable witnesses, etc.) But the rule must be implied, to punish “really bad people”, those who commits does crime intentionally. Do u get me? (sorry)

    Islam does not restrict its believer to socialize. But there are rules to abide with, to ensure peace and order. A female muslim can socialise with male non-muslims. There is no problem with that.

    Im sorry if my language has many flaws. I’m still learning. =) i also apologize if my comment offends anyone. I write this in a peaceful manner and i didnt meant to hurt anyway. U can reply to my comment by emailing me at azribohari[at]yahoo[dot]com.

    Azri Bohari
    Medicine
    National University of IReland, Galway

  67. #68 by lupus on Saturday, 5 April 2008 - 7:08 am

    This means that a non-Muslim standing next to a Muslim can be fine and it will be legal. You will have to prove that you are innocent if we were to go by previous court. Beside, what is the difference? Non-Muslim are being charged already with Islamic law. Remember the non-Muslim couple that was charged with khalwat or have we all forget that already? The next question is will it be the syariah courts or high court for this when we charge non-Muslim for khalwat or even something more serious ?

  68. #69 by Jeffrey on Saturday, 5 April 2008 - 7:09 am

    ///Pakatan Rakyat, we’re counting on you to bring this up in your parliament discussion to the federal government/// – leealex24 said.

    Yes, but before that, Pakatan Rakyat must first have a common stand ie consult PAS if it agrees or opposes proposals to impose heftier penalties – of up to four times the current penalties –on Muslims caught for khalwat, prostitution, consuming alcohol and involvement in gambling activities’ and extension of ‘khalwat’ to non-Muslims found committing khalwat (close proximity) with Muslims.

    What do you think PAS stand is in these proposals?

  69. #70 by lupus on Saturday, 5 April 2008 - 7:12 am

    Malaysian should show some leadership – Instead of condemning the movie Fitna, Malaysia should invite the film producer and show him the hospitality of Islam. Most westerner have an impression that Islam is a violent religion, why reinforce it by death threats ?

  70. #71 by lakilompat on Saturday, 5 April 2008 - 7:24 am

    If u r taking a bus, and normally during rush hour the bus are cramped, so u have no choice but to cramped with the Malay girls or students is this consider “close proximity” or khalwat. Why mess religion with law? these ppl will tend to go doom? only law that is free from religion bias can improve everybody life. Religion are not perfect, certain religion wanted to be supreme but look how many religion based country is successful today? most of these country are been bombed by developed countries or terrorist, as a result many innocents ppl died.

  71. #72 by lakilompat on Saturday, 5 April 2008 - 7:25 am

    There is no islamic state country in this world that is successful, and Malaysia wanted to be one with its own innovative Islam Hadhari initiated by Pak Lah (this old man has no record since becoming a PM).

  72. #73 by tsn on Saturday, 5 April 2008 - 7:56 am

    lakilompat,

    With full load of people in the bus, that will not constitute “khalwat” but INTIMATING. But after the full load of people, driver, conductor have disappeared, yet you still cramp with Malay girl(s), then this is “khalwat”

  73. #74 by Evenmind on Saturday, 5 April 2008 - 10:50 am

    My religion does not constitute holding hands or being in’ close proximity’ between opposite sex a crime, whoever is pursuing to procecute the non muslims however do not give two hoots about the feelings of these people, they want to push thier muslims law forcibly onto them, that sucks. Non muslims will not have any say anymore if this stupid moronoc law is passed. UM… no S h i t.

  74. #75 by Justhis on Sunday, 6 April 2008 - 3:37 am

    After reading certain clarifications made to explain the true meaning of kalwat and other Islamic Law practices; hudud the concern topic in broad (broad because too many political issues are mixing with it now); draws my attention as follows:
    1) I agree in principle that harsher punishment (but does not mean the way of hudud) is suitable for die-hard outlaw bandits. Especially those with evil minded. In disregard if they are under influence of drug or not, as some bandits are wise to use this clause to escape applicable laws. Buy The Times, British news paper, will see how is the outlaw condition is in UK now. There are apparent loop holes in their applicable laws. I find too much debate to conclude clear cases. This will soon result social illnesses to multiply uncontrollably.
    2) I was told by friends. They find legal system in Arab countries has effectively keep crime rate far too low to mention but too tight to feel comfortable. Imagine if a worker dies of hearth attack then the supervisor has to be locked up until the proof is shown on autopsy report. But Islamic law is fitting these societies just fine. Because close to 80% foreign workers are present in the country. Without a straight forward law and everything has to go through the democratic way of practice then loop holes will be taken advantage. Besides, economy stability plays a major part too.
    Hence, in order to prevent making 1% misjudgment another 30% criminals are enjoying the benefit of democratic loop holes offered to them.
    Anyway, sorry and have no answer for the 1% innocence under misjudge condition; and I cannot consider them as like car accident victims. Simply, they are innocent.
    3) Let’s come back to the topic. Hudud will cut off the hands of offenders for petty stealing. I was told that it is because prayer is so frequent for Muslims and locking up properties and resuming works will take time in olden days. Hence, to keep their priorities up right; enabling prayers to be carried out conveniently; harsh law is applied. But nowadays closing, locking can be easily done without harsh and hustle.
    4) Why make chance to temp others and apply hudud laws to cut the thief’s hands for petty stealing?
    Can this be a kind of over powering concept fall in the same pit as like western world imposing democratic to countries where they are mentally not ready to practice the system?
    Will Muslims be very welcoming to New World Order imposed by western countries?
    Muslims for sure taking their Islamic teaching as highest grade but why still demand non-Muslims are also equally “highest standard” (which I truly belief we are) without going through Islamic teaching but still have to subject to hudud?
    Will this mean once non-Muslims go through Islamic teaching (even if they don’t convert) then logically they will definitely become “most-highest” grade than those converted highest grade Muslim?
    5) My Malay friends, you and I know the answers are all NO! Please do not feel easily insulted. But right in my mind, Muslims are just as double standard as like non-Muslims. We are just born equal in this sense; imperfection; as creatures. But I do not deprive Muslims from up holding hudud is the little difference I can offer to my self without being influenced by any religious teaching blindly. I think my words are too harsh, but hardly can I express them in other ways except like this to bring out my feeling of injustice. I feel sad, simply because of many Malays I come across until now has no one not double standard in this aspect. The more I see this happening the more I appreciate my Malay couple cikgu. They educated me in standard 1 to 3 in a small SMJK. He and his wife punished naughty non-Muslim pupils like me without telling me how great their Allah is. They just perform their works dutifully as simple teachers. I still remember how they look like until now; my respectful Cikgu Ali.

  75. #76 by lakilompat on Sunday, 6 April 2008 - 1:13 pm

    Those small thief are punish by cutting off their hand, how about those big thieves (Mokhzani, Khairy, Pak Lah, Patrick Lim, Kamaludin, Taib)? Don’t be blinded by religion, law will be on their side even to detain the Hindraf 5.

  76. #77 by akarmalaysian on Sunday, 6 April 2008 - 9:52 pm

    khalwat is nothing compared to the dirty corruptors of the ministers in the government.wat are the punishments for those leaders whom the people hv entrusted their beliefs unto them to lead this country.lead …yes…leading their corrupted monies all the way into their own pockets.nothing has ever done to punish these people.especially leaders who brag abt corruption…just look into the mirror b4 u preach corruption.idiots.

  77. #78 by akarmalaysian on Sunday, 6 April 2008 - 9:58 pm

    p/s: why brag abt religions and taking them as an excuse to divert peoples attention whn thr are more serious matters to handle on national level.wats the big fuss abt all these khalwat thing…u guys got nothing better to do than poking into others intimate privacy.to the one who preaches islam hadhari….i ever wonder u understand or knw wat u ever preaches.

  78. #79 by novice101 on Sunday, 6 April 2008 - 10:33 pm

    The BN and the PR leaders have surely also read what had been suggested by the IKIM and the religious departments. It would be interesting to know what they to say.

    Give them some time to digest and come out with their respective stances.

  79. #80 by lakilompat on Monday, 7 April 2008 - 4:23 pm

    Can a Malay marketing manager or sales girl discuss business proposal in a hotel room with male colleagues? when coming out of the room, the anti Khalwat team caught them?

  80. #81 by 318 on Tuesday, 8 April 2008 - 7:46 am

    right ktteokt. My brother was going into relationship with a Malay girl a few years ago. My family was against this relationship unless no change of religion on both side. To our surprise this girl willing to leave her religion even objection from her family. We did tell her even she did that, how about our government? In the end they ended the relationship

  81. #82 by Cinapek on Tuesday, 8 April 2008 - 11:40 am

    “..But it is in the ranks of UMNO and the UMNO-led institutions of the state that we see the mental quagmire of the elite at its worst. IKIM and the Shariah Judiciary Department are both institutions that were created under the auspices of the UMNO-led government. ”

    “…Malaysians are excessively deferential to their leaders, rarely challenging or even criticizing ”

    The first statement and the second from Dr Bakri Musa’s article best summarises the root of the problem and the solution.

    These organizations (IKIM, Jakim, Shariah Judiciary Dept etc) are populated with sick extremist minds that tries to justify their relevance by proposing dangerous and extreme laws that infringes the rights of non Muslims as well as to portray themselves as the defenders of the Islamic faith. And the very people who could correct all these, UMNO, covertly encourages them by their silence.

    UMNO deserves their whipping in the latest elections as they failed to see that even many Muslims themselves abhors such cruel punishments as whipping, much less impose these Islamic laws and punishments on non muslims.

    If UMNO fails to understand this and do the right thing, they will become extinct in the next GE.

  82. #83 by cheng on soo on Tuesday, 8 April 2008 - 12:30 pm

    with this khalwat law, a man can be wronged for carrying his sick or injured sisters / daughters / nieces / mother / aunties on his back to seek medical help.
    Likewise, a woman carry her son / nephew / brother / uncle, etc
    So is this a good or sensible law?

  83. #84 by lakilompat on Wednesday, 9 April 2008 - 3:31 pm

    With this law, Muslim females become a slaves they have to serve their husband and give birth, allowed their husband to torture them, they have to tolerate it because they are very shy or not dare to report police. Female don’t get a chance to expose themselves, this make them shy and scared to tell as there is no help from other male friends, and relatives.

    If a malay muslim has just been raped she shouted for help, but all non-muslim scared to help her because she is naked, maybe will invite trouble that mean, all malay muslim females are vulnerable to rape as when that happen non muslims dare not come close to help them.

    Gender separation within a family is evil, a family should be united not separated, brother & sisters, father & mother. If living a life separated then why we must have a family in the first place? I find that separation is very easy, just have to send sms not “Talak” then it is consider legal.

  84. #85 by yellow on Wednesday, 9 April 2008 - 4:23 pm

    Under syariah law, rape victims must have 4 witnesses to the crime, failing which the victim will either be punished for either false accusation or khalwat or both. If the victim or the perpetrator happens to be married, then she will be charged with adultery and stoned to death. Proponents of the islamic state had better think again before opening their loud mouths, either that or pray hard that they do not themselves become crime victims.

  85. #86 by lakilompat on Thursday, 10 April 2008 - 12:18 pm

    If I’m a malay muslim, i can rape the victims as long as i’m in a secluded area? e.g. palm estates or abandon house (frequently heard in news) if there are no 4 witness mean one is eligible to rape? Is wives abuse allowed, the wives has no one to turn to, they are afraid to voice up as females are consider minority.

  86. #87 by For Malaysia on Saturday, 23 August 2008 - 10:40 pm

    Farish Noor, your article has attracted unkind words to be uttered against Islam by idiots who does not understand the religion at all. And you are keeping quiet. You owe an indepth explanation to make an idiot like harrisonbinhansome; I am all for a fair Malaysia for all Malaysian irrespective of creed, color or religion but I am not ‘selling’ my faith and religion for it. I am a Muslim and I am not condemning other teachings; to my non-Muslims Malaysian, your religion is yours and mine is mine. Farish, if you say you are consumed by anger because of those things that you had written, my question to you is, are you feeling the same with these silly and disparaging remarks made by these idiots? I certainly do.

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