Saturday, January 09, 2010

Dear Colleagues,

The Press Conference turned out well. There are about 20 of us representing different NGO sectors at the press conference. Journalists from the print, broadcasting and electronic were there.

Reports are here:
1. http://malaysiakini.com/news/121560 (English)
2. http://merdekareview.com/news/n/11927.html (Chinese)

Al Jazeera also carried the news in its news report.

I attach here the statement with the latest list. As at 1809 hours, we have had 125 civil society groups and 5 political parties endorsing it. Do forward to interested groups and send us new names. We shall update the list of endorsers if necessary. It will still make news if the number of endorsers soars phenomenally.

We may set up a facebook page to archive and update statements in defence of peace, diversity and reason, which include this and also previous statements in response to the cowhead protest. Do volunteer if you could help administering the page.

Yours
Chin Huat

Joint Statement of Civil Society on 22^nd January 2010

Attack against one faith is attack against all faiths

We the undersigned Malaysian civil society groups from different spiritual, cultural and ideological backgrounds condemn unreservedly in the strongest possible terms the latest arson attacks against two suraus in Muar in the early morning of January 21.

Any attack on any faith in Malaysia is an attack on all faiths in Malaysia. We express our solidarity with the Sirratulrahim Surau in Kampung Sabak Awor and Parit Beting surau, and to the Malaysian Muslim community at large. Â

The attacks on the suraus seem to be a deliberate and desperate move to provoke Malaysians into sectarian conflicts. The earlier attacks on nine churches, a mosque, a surau, a gurdwara and a convent school, have failed to trigger even distrust as Malaysians of all faiths and creeds stand united in the wake of violence.

While the Police must act swiftly in investigation and defeat any act of violence and terrorism, we call upon all Malaysians to have faith in peace, freedom and reason.

After all, these attacks are at most a crisis of law and order caused by a failure of the Malaysian state, not a crisis of religious harmony indicating a failure of the Malaysian society.

Let us stay calm and support each other. Let our spirit of fraternity defeat any unscrupulous conspiracy to tear Malaysian society apart, to censor media, to compromise on rule of law or to justify draconian measures like ISA.

As Malaysians stand united, terrorism and authoritarianism shall have no place in this blessed country.

Endorsing Civil Society Groups

1. All Women’s Action Society (AWAM)
2. Bar Council of Malaysia
3. Civil Right Committee, Kuala Lumpur & Selangor Chinese Assembly Hall (CRC-KLSCAH)
4. Civil Society Committee of LLG Cultural Development Centre Bhd (LLGCSC)\
5. Civil Society Initiative for Parliamentary Reform (CSI@Parliament)
6. Friends in Conversation (FIC)
7. Islamic Renaissance Front (IRF)
8. Malaysian Consultative Council for Buddhism Christianity Hinduism Sikhism and Taoism (MCCBCHST)
9. Muslim Professionals Forum (MPF)
10. Penang Du Zhong Education Society
11. Persatuan Kesedaran Komuniti Selangor (Empower)
12. Sarawak Central Region Friendship Association
13. Saya Anak Bangsa Malaysia
14. Sisters in Islam (SIS)
15. The Coalition of Malaysian Indian NGOs
16. The Micah Mandate (TMM)
17. Writer Alliance for Media Independence (WAMI)

Endorsing Political Parties

1. Democratic Action Party (DAP)

FIMA Relief E-Bulletin January 2010

1,400 dead, 5,000 injured, 20,000 homeless, 50,000 displaced and $1.6 billion damages was inflicted on the Gaza economy. Schools, hospitals, universities, ministries, homes, shops were razed to the ground – nothing was spared not even the UN facilities. The people of Gaza were simply bombed to death.
All around the world civil societies are marking the first anniversary of this cowardly and genocidal crime. FIMA is dedicating this special issue of our e-newsletter to this Gaza Remembrance Day to express out outrage at this neo-holocaust and our solidarity with the Palestinian people and their legitimate cause against Zionist occupation of their lands.

The Cow-Head Lesson for Merdeka: Deligitimize Violence and Hatred

We, the undersigned civil society organizations are shocked, angered
and saddened by the “Cow-Head protest” in Shah Alam last Friday, 28
August 09,  against a proposed Hindu temple in Section 23 of the city.
The carrying of the head of a freshly slaughtered cow, a sacred animal to
the Hindus, and the unveiled threat of blood shed on the eve of
Merdeka celebration suggest that all Malaysians need to reflect deeply
about our 52 years of nationhood, and the clarion call of 1Malaysia

From the outset, these heinous acts of crime perpetrated by the irresponsible
few must NEVER be  seen as a conflict between the two faiths or the
two faith communities. All major spiritual traditions, Islam and
Hinduism included, uphold peace and human dignity as their common and
core values.  Our spirituality and love for humanity mandates us for
the perpetual quest for peace and abhorrence of all forms of hatred
and civil disorder.

The Shah Alam incident sadly reveals that violence and hatred are
still  inadequately delegitimized in our society. We exhort all
Malaysians  to unite in our joint efforts to  decry and delegitimize
violence and hatred to prevent any individual or grouping from
resorting to intimidation or provocation  when faced with  any
town-planning disputes or rows of  similar nature.

We the undersigned, taking cognizance of the above, do hereby :

1. URGE that all disputes in civil society must be resolved through
peaceful means such as peaceful demonstrations, rational dialogues,
extensive consultations and legal suits. The Selangor State
Government’s plan to hold a town hall meeting to facilitate
communication and engagement with all stakeholders is highly
commendable.

2. CONDEMN in the strongest possible language any act to humiliate and
intimidate any ethno-religious community, in this case the irreligious
and irresponsible   display of a cow head. In the Shah Alam incident,
not only the Hindus  are humiliated and hurt but also all thinking
Malaysians – Muslim, Buddhist, Hindu, Christian, Sikh, those of other
spiritual traditions and atheist. We particularly share the pain and
anguish of the Shah Alam Hindu community.

3. URGE all religious authorities, community leaders and political
parties to unreservedly condemn the perpetrators of the reprehensible
“Cow-Head” act.   Every racial and religious bigot should be shamed
and distanced by the general public especially by their
ethno-religious community which they seek to represent. Political
parties must also take disciplinary action against members involved in
inciting hatred. This would deprive them the pleasure and
gratification of self-righteousness and
heroism. Legal punishment alone may prove inadequate because it may
instead grant the offenders the self-perceived honour of martyrdom

4. SUPPORT a thorough investigation of those responsible for the
“Cow-Head” protest for threatening violence (not sedition) on both the
local Hindu community and the elected State Government of Selangor.
Threats of violence, for whatever reason, has no place in a civilized
society. Violence must be condemned and can only be completely
delegitimized when society has zero tolerance for it and every
offender is appropriately punished.

5.  EXPRESS shock and dismay at the failure of the police force  to
stop the protestors from issuing their threats of bloodshed. An
independent investigation on professional negligence should be
immediately initiated to examine these policing failures of a
potentially fulminating racial and religious crisis. This incident
among others further highlights the dire importance and urgent need
for an Independent Police Complaints and Misconduct Commission
(IPCMC). The IPCMC is a must if the Najib Administration is genuinely
committed to peace in Malaysia.

6. CALL on all Malaysians to heed our plea to completely delegitimize
violence and hatred and to strive towards its elimination from our
public life. Let this be our joint resolution for our nation’s
forthcoming Merdeka anniversary. Let us usher in a Malaysia which
cherishes the values of peace, reason, justice, freedom, equity and
inclusion for all Malaysians.

The undersigned groups:
1. All Women’s Action Society Malaysia (AWAM)
2. Centre for Policy Initiatives (CPI)
3. Civil Rights Committee, Kuala Lumpur and Selangor Chinese Assembly
Hall (CRC-KLSCAH)
4. Civil Society Committee, LLG Cultural Development Centre (LLGCSC)
5. Civil Society Initiative for Parliamentary Reform (CSI@Parliament)
6. Coalition of Malaysian NGOs Against Persecution of Palestinians (COMPLETE)
7. Coalition of Selangor Indian NGOs
8. Consumer Association of Klang
9. Council of Churches of Malaysia (CCM) Youth
10. Council of Malaysia Indian Trustee
11. Friends in Conversation (FIC)
12. Group of Concerned Citizens (GCC)
13. Hindu Youth Organization, Port Klang
14. Human Development and Research Centre
15. Islamic Medical Association of Malaysia (IMAM)
16. Islamic Renaissance Front (IRF)
17. Jemaah Islah Malaysia (JIM)
18. Justice for Beng Hock Facebook Group
19. Kelab Sukan Depot Port Klang
20. Klang Vellarun Kalai Pannai
21. Letchumi Pooja Dhana Manbran Klang
22. Majlis Kelab Bell Tamil Selangor
23. Malaysia Belia Hindu Negeri Selangor
24. Malaysia Hindu Sangam Klang Council
25. Malaysia Hindu Sangam Selangor state council
26. Malaysia Indian Youth Council Selangor
27. Malaysian Hindu Dharma Mamandram Selangor
28. Muslim Professionals Forum (MPF)
29. Nadaraikia Sangam Selangor
30. Pamban Swami Maha Teja Mandala Sabai
31. Persatuan Alumni PBTUSM (Lihua) Selangor and Kuala Lumpur
32. Persatuan Kebajikan Bharathana Selangor
33. Persatuan Kebajikan cahaya wawasan Selangor
34. Persatuan Kebajikan Nammakkal
35. Persatuan Kebajikan Vanniar
36. Persatuan Kemajuan Pendidikan Malaysia
37. Persatuan Pembaca Tamil Klang
38. Persatuan Peniaga little India Klang
39. Persatuan Penyelidikan Astronomi Selangor
40. Persatuan Prihatin Belia Malaysia
41. Persatuan Thiruvallavar
42. Persatuan Wawasan India Selangor
43. Pertubuhan Kebudayaan dan Kesenian India Selangor
44. Pertubuhan Kesedaran Hara Krishna Klang
45. Research for Social Advancement (REFSA)
46. Selangor Indian Video graphers Association
47. Sri Vadivelu Culture and Welfare Association Selangor
48. Sri Vaishnava Paribalana Saba
49. Suara Raykat Malaysia (SUARAM)
50. The Divine Life Society Port Klang
51. The Micah Mandate
52. Vishnu Periyaval Sabai
53. Writer Alliance for Media Independence (WAMI)
54. 1BLACKMalaysia Facebook Group

MPF STATEMENT
The Muslim Professionals Forum (MPF) regrets Karpal Singh’s knee jerk political rhetorics to our public forum titled “Who Needs an Islamic State” held at the Kelab Golf Perkhidmatan Awam on 20th April 2008 (Karpal tells PAS to drop Islamic state policy; Malaysiakini 22nd April 2008)

What makes it even more regrettable was that it was not evidence based and hence devoid of any grasp of the course of events in Kiara. It is evident that Mr. Karpal’s entrenched position is based on old prejudices, out of synch with the openness that Malaysia’s new politics expects.

Maybe Mr. Karpal needs to widen his reading horizons and references and heed to the investigative reporting by “alternative media” which among others wrote “PAS research director Dr Dzulkifli Ahmad was well received by the audience even though he apologised at the onset that his preparation for this morning was the bare minimum (although he added in a few points while Abdelwahab was speaking). Quoting verses from the Quran effortlessly and framing his discussion within the local context, he said that the supreme objective of Syariah is justice. Quoting an ulama, he explained: “Syariah is the public interest of humanity, avoiding harm, enriching (with) benefits.” With his witty and friendly style, he engaged the audience by explaining how the construct or form really does not matter, as what counts is the substance. For those who had long thought of PAS followers as turban-wearing mullahs, Dzulkifli came across as balanced and not rabidly religious.” (No answers, but a good beginning to a “heavy” question” The Malaysia Insider; April 21, 2008,).

And to authenticate the report, allow us to quote Dr. Dzulkifli who said : “And I am of the conviction that the word called Islamic State, it is not found in the Quran anyway, and not even found in the prophetic tradition of the prophet (peace be upon him). And its almost like a derived political phraseology or conception that came a lot later…I am not here to defend a particular form of Islamic state and the idea of advocating the Islamic Khilafah or otherwise. To me this is not the be all or end all or the purpose of the Islamic movement and the Islamic political party.”

This is very much in accordance with the main theme of Dr. al-Affendi’s work, who, as early as 1991 (1st edition of the book “Who needs an Islamic state”) moved away from the idea of Islamic state as a theocratic construct to that of a modern polity based on Islamic values of justice, good governance and respect for fundamental rights, a polity that is not incompatible with the ideals of democracy. Dr. Zulkifli himself at the beginning of his talk said that “I could have been the author of this book”.

Anyone familiar with the Malaysian political scenario would know that Dr. Dzulkifli has been consistent in advocating such vision of Islamic polity since he came to prominence as the Director of PAS Research Centre under the illustrious, the late Ustaz Fadhil Noor. He is indeed instrumental in the re-invention of PAS and the party’s manifesto for PRU 12 that clearly reflects such polity.

It would be unfortunate for the Pakatan Rakyat (PR) if her top echelon at the negotiating table are to be swayed readily by the mainstream press. The de facto leader of the Pakatan Rakyat and the august Pakatan Rakyat consultative council needs to rein in these dinosaurs who are much too often “celupar” and are myopic as to what constitutes fact and fiction.

That “cool, lazy Sunday”, lived up to its decorum as an intellectual discourse which has always been uppermost in the minds of the MPF board.

We even issued an invitation to YB Gobind Singh Deo DAP MP for Puchong to sit on the panel, but he politely declined for various pressing reasons. Even Imtiaz was pleasantly surprised when he remarked : “I never thought I’d be sharing the stage with somebody from PAS and actually saying pretty much the same thing.”

Malaysia post-2008 elections is embracing a new political landscape which is based on the bedrock principles of universal justice, equity and fairness and an ethno-religious discourse which is transparent, civil, sensitive yet non-emotional. Unfortunately, it would seem that there are still giants of Malaysian politics who are invariably trapped in the archaic time zones of “Jurassic Politics”.

Dr. Mazeni Alwi
Chairman
Muslim Professionals Forum

Joint memo to Datuk Seri Nazri

1. JOINT MEMO TO DATUK SERI NAZRI

Our Ref: MPF/MMN/003/06

March,20, 2006

YB Datuk Seri Nazri Aziz
Minister
Prime Minister’s Department
15th Floor, Parliament House
Tower Block
Kuala Lumpur

Assalamualaikum WBT

Dear Yang Berhormat,

JOINT MEMORANDUM TO THE MINISTER IN PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE, LAW PORTFOLIO, DATUK SERI MOHAMED NAZRI ABDUL AZIZ IN SUPPORT OF HIS STATEMENT IN DEWAN RAKYAT ON 16 MARCH 2006 THAT THE ISLAMIC FAMILY LAW FEDERAL (TERRITORIES) (AMENDMENT) ACT 2006 DOES NOT CONTRADICT HUKUM SYARA’ AND SHOWED NO DISCRIMINATION TO WOMEN.

We jointly support the above said statement by Datuk Seri Nazri Abdul Aziz on the above amendments to the above Act. In addition, we would like to jointly recommend the following actions:-

Malaysians must reaffirm Islam as the official religion of Malaysia. Sensitivities of Muslims must be respected and unwarranted comments on Islam avoided.

1. We take pride in Malaysia’s multi-racial and multi-religious make-up, the source of our rich cultural heritage. Our harmonious co-existence hinges on mutual respect of different faiths and racial communities.
2. Some Non-Muslims understandably cannot relate to Muslims’ reverence of the Islamic sacred texts. The current trend of comments by Non-Muslims on Islamic jurisprudence such as Islamic Family Law (Federal Territories), Amendment Act 2006 has caused concern among Muslims.
3. Offensive and inflammatory criticisms of Islamic sacred texts are unacceptable. We do however; welcome positive dialogue to advance our society’s understanding of Islam.

The media should play a responsible role in interfaith understanding and goodwill.

1. Media bias undermines journalistic standards and ethics.
2. Media must acknowledge attempts to correct the distortion and confusion regarding Islam. Printed letters are truncated rendering them ineffective in response.
3. We ask that the media be more responsible, truthful and fair in its reporting because the media is a very powerful agent of influence
4. We urge the media to be sensitive and NOT publish articles that are offensive to Muslims. Dissemination of information through media must be within parameters of professionalism not sensationalism.

Statements on Shariah matters should only be made in full recognition that it is a specialised science with its own specific methodology.

1. Islam is a divinely-revealed religion based on the holy Qur’an which is the literal word of Allah, and the Hadith, which is the meaning of the word of Allah embodied in the sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
2. Islam is absolute submission to Allah. “I hear and I obey” is the obligation of every Muslim to Allah in matters which are definite and have been clearly prescribed in the Quran and Hadith.
3. Islamic jurisprudence is Islamic laws derived from the Qur’an and Hadith. Muslim scholars of Islamic jurisprudence were people of deep learning, piety, exalted character and high integrity. Their authority has been recognised and accepted by generations of scholars and Muslims.
4. Accusations of erosions of fundamental liberties and gender biasness in the interpretation of Islamic law are unfounded.

Appointment of more judges well versed in both substantive and procedural aspects of the Shariah.

1. Shariah Courts perceived as sluggish, uninspiring and of a different status compared to civil courts. The inefficiency of Shariah Courts is caused by the problems of the courts: burdensome caseloads, excessive trials, insufficient court structures and case handling procedures.
2. Shariah Court to be upgraded and allocated more resources:
   • More judges and personnel
   • Ample remuneration
   • More court rooms
   • Increased training for Shariah Court personnel in communication: public relations and language skills

Note: Studies have shown that there is no empirical evidence of discrimination against women in the Shariah system.

Thank you.
Yours truly,

Dr Mazeni bin Alwi
Chairman
Muslim Professionals Forum Berhad

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2. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

JOINT MEMORANDUM TO THE MINISTER IN PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE, LAW PORTFOLIO YB DATUK SERI MOHAMED NAZRI ABDUL AZIZ, IN SUPPORT OF HIS STATEMENT IN DEWAN RAKYAT ON 16 MARCH 2006, THAT THE ISLAMIC FAMILY LAW (FEDERAL TERRITORIES) (AMENDMENT) ACT 2006 DOES NOT CONTRADICT HUKUM SYARA’ AND DOES NOT DISCRIMINATE WOMEN

The Islamic Family Law (Federal Territories) (Amendment) Act 2006 hereinafter called IFLA, became a controversial piece of legislative amendment when views of dissent were instigated by certain women based NGOs and sensationalised by the media.

Various Islamic NGOs took the initiative to study the IFLA in depth in order to address the controversial issues raised. The study noted that IFLA does not contradict Hukum Syara’ and shows no discrimination to women, though admittedly there are grey areas that need to be addressed. The good office of the Attorney General will rectify and amend any provisions where necessary.

Members of the Islamic NGOs consisting of Muslim Professionals Forum Berhad (MPF), Pertubuhan Jama’ah Islah Malaysia (JIM), Angkatan Belia Islam Malaysia (ABIM), Islamic Information and Services Foundation (IIS) and International Muslim Women Union (IMWU – Malaysian Chapter) and Khalifah Institute made a visit on 20 Feb, 2006, to YB Datuk Seri Nazri Aziz, Minister in the Prime Minister’s office, Law Portfolio. The meeting discussed at length several issues, among them, the need to upgrade the Shariah Court, uninformed statements made on Shariah matters, unwarranted statements on Islam and the critical role of media in interfaith understanding and goodwill.

Pursuant to the above meeting, a coalition group of Islamic NGOs is tendering a joint memorandum to YB Datuk Seri Nazri on 20 March 2006 at the lobby of the Parliament House. This joint memorandum is not only to reiterate their support of YB Datuk Seri Nazri’s statement on IFLA but also to put forward several recommendations among others: improving the efficiency of the Shariah court, addressing unwarranted comments on Islam from certain quarters and responsible reporting by the media in interfaith understanding and goodwill.

Attachments

1. Joint Memorandum
2. List of NGOs and background information
3. Press Statement
4. Press Clippings

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PRESS STATEMENT

ISLAMIC NGOs SUPPORT THE STATEMENT IN DEWAN RAKYAT ON 16 MARCH 2006 BY MINISTER IN THE PRIME MINISTER’S DEPARTMENT, LAW PORTFOLIO YB DATUK SERI MOHAMED NAZRI ABDUL AZIZ THAT THE ISLAMIC FAMILY LAW (FEDERAL TERRITORIES) (AMENDMENT) ACT 2006 DOES NOT CONTRADICT HUKUM SYARA’ AND DOES NOT DISCRIMINATE WOMEN

A coalition group of Islamic NGOs supports the Islamic Family Law (Federal Territories) (Amendment) Act 2006, hereinafter called IFLA. On 20 March, 2006, at the Parliament House, this group tendered a joint memorandum to YB Datuk Seri Nazri Aziz, Minister in Prime Minister’s office, Law Portfolio. This joint memorandum serves as a declaration of support for YB Datuk Seri Nazri Aziz statement on IFLA that it does not contradict Hukum Syara’ and does not discriminate women.

The coalition group jointly recommends several actions to be taken such as: to improve the efficiency of the Shariah Courts, to address uninformed statements made on Shariah matters, unwarranted comments on Islam by certain quarters and responsible reporting by the media in interfaith understanding and goodwill. The coalition group agrees that the IFLA contains certain grey areas in some of its clauses which have led to the misunderstanding and misinterpretation of the law. We leave it to the good office of the Attorney General to rectify and amend any grey areas as necessary.

The coalition group was led by the Chairman of Muslim Professionals Forum Bhd (MPF), Dr Mazeni Alwi and a statement based on the joint memorandum was read by Founding Director, Puan Farah Pang Abdullah.

The coalition group deeply appreciates YB Datuk Seri Nazri for giving them the opportunity to personally hand-over the memorandum to him and making time to listen to their views. The group feels confident that YB Datuk Seri will give his utmost support and cooperation for the betterment of the Muslim ‘ummah’.

Attached is the list of Islamic NGOs endorsing the joint memorandum.

For further information, please contact Pn Zainuriah Abdul Rahman at 017-8722968.

Dr Mazeni Alwi
Chairman
Muslim Professionals Forum Berhad

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3. LIST OF SIGNATORIES

JOINT MEMORANDUM TO THE MINISTER IN PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE, LAW PORTFOLIO, YB DATUK SERI MOHAMED NAZRI ABDUL AZIZ IN SUPPORT OF HIS STATEMENT IN DEWAN RAKYAT ON 16 MARCH 2006 THAT THE ISLAMIC FAMILY LAW FEDERAL (TERRITORIES) (AMENDMENT) ACT 2006 DOES NOT CONTRADICT HUKUM SYARA’ AND SHOWED NO DISCRIMINATION TO WOMEN.

LIST OF ISLAMIC NGOs ENDORSING THE JOINT MEMORANDUM

1. Allied Coordinating Committee of Islamic N.G.O.s (ACCIN)
2. Angkatan Belia Islam Malaysia (ABIM)
3. Darul Syifa’
4. Global Peace Mission Malaysia (GPM)
5. Grup Pengkaji Tamadun Dunia
6. Ikatan Pengkajian Islam Pahang
7. Ikatan Siswazah Muslim Malaysia
8. International Muslim Women Network (IMAN) (protem)
9. International Muslim Women Union (Malaysian Chapter)
10. Islamic Information and Services Foundation (IIS)
11. Islamic Outreach ABIM (IOA)
12. Jamaah Islah Malaysia (JIM)
13. Kelab Pemikir Muda
14. Kesatuan Pelajar Islam Johor
15. Kesatuan Pelajar Islam Melaka
16. Kesatuan Pelajar Islam Perak
17. Khalifah Institute
18. Majlis Bertindak Wanita Islam
19. Muslim Professional Forum Berhad (MPF)
20. Muslim Women Consultative Council
21. Pergerakan Belia India Muslim Malaysia(GEPIMA)
22. Persatuan Al- Hunafa’
23. Persatuan Al-Hidayah
24. Persatuan Cina Muslim Malaysia (MACMA)
25. Persatuan Darul Fitrah Malaysia
26. Persatuan Guaman Syarie Malaysia (PGSM)
27. Persatuan Kebajikan Pelajar Islam Sarawak
28. Persatuan Kebangsaan Pelajar Islam Malaysia (PKPIM)
29. Persatuan Pembimbing Pelajar Islam Kelantan
30. Persatuan Pembimbing Pelajar Islam Pulau Pinang.
31. Persatuan Pendidikan Islam Negeri Sembilan
32. Persatuan Pengguna Islam Malaysia (PPIM)
33. Persatuan Ulama’ Malaysia (PUM)
34. Persatuan Wadah Pencerdasan Umat (WADAH)
35. Persekutuan Pertubuhan India Muslim Malaysia (PERMIM)
36. Persekutuan Seruan Islam Selangor dan Wilayah Persekutuan (JAM’IYAH)
37. Pertubuhan Kebajikan An-Nidaa’ Malaysia
38. Pertubuhan Kebajikan Islam Malaysia (PERKIM)
39. Pertubuhan Muafakat Sejahtera Masyarakat Malaysia (MUAFAKAT)
40. Research & Information Centre on Islam (RICOI)
41. Sekretariat Himpunan Ulama Rantau Asia (SHURA)
42. Teras Pengupayaan Melayu (TERAS)
43. Yayasan Pembangunan Ummah (YPU)

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4. STATEMENT BY PUAN FARAH HAMZAH, SPOKEPERSON FOR THE DELEGATION

MEETING THE PRESS AT PARLIAMENT HOUSE, MARCH 20 2006

OPENING STATEMENT

• Thank you once again for being here today. We are here as concerned citizens of 43 Muslim NGOs to share with you some key issues we have on the role of the media. We have 4 major concerns and it is with sincerity that we speak to you in your capacity as responsible media reps in the country.
• First, I will highlight the 4 issues we want to talk to you, after which you can ask questions. With me are my colleagues who will be happy to engage you in Q & A. after this.

1. Sensitivities of Muslims must be respected · Malaysians must recognize that Islam is the official religion while at the same time take pride in its multi-racial and multi-religious fabric. Our harmonious coexistence hinges firmly on mutual respect of different faiths and culture.

· This value of mutual respect has lately been abandoned when non Muslims openly make unwarranted comments on Islamic jurisprudence such as the Islamic Family Law (FT) Amendment Act 2006.

· Some have also made inflammatory and offensive criticisms of Islamic texts that have provoked Muslims. Let me give you some examples. When a non-Muslim editor of a media said that the hijab is not ‘imperative’ for Muslim women and when another non-Muslim correspondent said that Muslims reacted to the cartoons because of insecurity, it looks like open season for all to take liberties with Islam – and that is certainly a worrying trend.

· We strongly advise non- Muslims to refrain from making any unwarranted and uncalled for remarks about Islam, just as we have observed the same respect for the other religions in Malaysia. We also urge the media not to print any of these articles or statements made by non –Muslims.

· You may say that public discourses are important in an enlightened modern society and that press freedom is important to you, the media. But does press freedom encourage others to tread unkindly on people’s religion? Does press freedom subscribe to blasphemy and sedition?

· Having said that, we are happy to hold dialogues with non- Muslims to advance our society’s understanding of Islam.

2. The need for truthful and balanced reporting by the media

• We all know that a responsible media is a powerful agent of influence and because of this special role, it must be mindful at all times to publish and air truthful and balanced articles on all issues, especially those that concern religions.
• Lately we see that the media has been biased in its reporting concerning Islam. It does not validate facts on Islam before print. It sometimes sensationalises articles written by privileged individuals who have a flair for distorting and confusing Islamic issues.
• When concerned Muslims write in to correct the misconceptions, you will not print our rebuttal and if you do, you truncate the articles rendering them ineffective in response. The latest example concerns relegating Muslim women to the ghetto in apartheid community.
• When you do that, you undermine your own journalistic standards and ethics. And by extension, you therefore, undermine your important role as an agent of influence.
• Like us, we know you value religious coexistence. We urge you the media to be sensitive and NOT publish or air articles offensive to mainstream Muslims.

3. Statements on Shariah matters

Statements on Shariah matters should only be made by parties in full recognition that it is a specialized science with its own specific methodology.

As Islam is a divinely revealed religion with its sources of knowledge enshrined in the Holy Quran and the hadiths, any attempt by individuals to misinterpret them to suit their own needs and desires is unacceptable.

· We also observe that the media has been publishing articles and statements that accuse Islamic laws of eroding fundamental liberties and encouraging gender prejudice. Such accusations are unfounded and reflect either ignorance or deliberate avoidance of the truth in the sacred texts.

· These individuals need to respect Islamic jurisprudence which is Islamic laws derived from the sacred texts. Muslim scholars who spent their entire lives studying the texts were people of deep piety and impeccable integrity.

· The media needs to do research to check the content accuracy with the relevant authority before publishing them. We look forward to the day when media self censures articles they know can be offensive to mainstream Muslims. This will be the hallmark of responsible reporting.

4. Upgrading the Shariah Courts

· Shariah courts, being State courts have been perceived as being different from civil courts and have also been seen to be inefficient.

· A recent research recognizes that the inefficiency is caused by heavy caseloads, excessive trials and inadequate court structures and case handling procedures.

· It is imperative that we upgrade the Shariah courts by appointing more judges who are competent in both substantive and procedural aspects of the Shariah. It is also necessary to bring up the status of the Shariah judges to be at par with the civil court judges.

· The Shariah courts also need more resources like funds, personnel, ample remuneration and court rooms. Equally important is the training for Shariah court personnel in communication, public relations and language skills.

· We urge the Government to provide more resources to the Shariah courts in Malaysia to enable them to be more effective and efficient in carrying out their responsibilities.

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CONCLUDING REMARK

Thank you for hearing us out and we sincerely ask that you give us correct and fair coverage for this special meeting with you.

From Husna’s Blog …

Saturday, December 22, 2007

MPF @ Rumah Solehah

We had a makan2 thingy last night @ Rumah Solehah, the new house (their very own home, no need to move like nomads now) is sumwhere in Jln Thavers, Kg. Pandan where we got lost !! The MPF (individuals la) did some Qurban for the kids of Rumah Solehah; a shelter for the women and kids with HIV and AIDS. Since my dad is the chairman of the house thus MPF is somehow related too. Last two years we did a fundraising for the house (raised close to 250K), and of course the usual visits. So technically my dad is the father for all the kids there, 25 or 26 of them. But sadly not all of them came last night, they were still in the old house @ Bdr Tun Razak because most of them were not well. We had yummylicious nasi pilau by Aunty Azra, and the main dishes of kerutup daging & fried chicken by Aunty Rohana (sedap giler !) , mee by Aunty Elya, different types of salad by Aunty Aishah, heavenly desserts cupcakes, donuts by Aunty Gee & Aunty Mils and cream caramel by Datin Wan and lots more. The whole family of Uncle Dr. Mazeni did the slaughtering & cooking at their animal fram in Klang. Uncle Manan brought a box load of presents and goody packs for the kids. And my mummy provided the crockeries ie paper plates, paper cups, forks and spoons and doubled as the mandor delegating all the responsibilities. And we had to send some of them back to the old house otherwise Mak Wan needs to make two trips. Kesian the kids cuti tak pegi mane-mane pun.

For those who are free, please do drop by Rumah Solehah and see by yourselves the kind of life they are living, the kids are desperately in need of your love and care. Just spend an hour or so playing with the kids will make you feel very much attached to them, indeed they are very special.

Sunday, December 16, 2007

Tribute To The Kids of Rumah Solehah.
(a shelter for the =iv/aids women and kids)

The Smiles of Not Knowing

They came into this world without knowing
They go through the days without understanding
They live dear life innocently without much fear
They bear the sufferings with venerable vigor

All they crave for is your understanding and caring
Your warm touches, hugs and kisses
Your love and lots more
To live their dear life with a little bit of hope

The smiles of not knowing
Dear Lord, bless these tiny souls

UchnanaBanana
14th Dec 2007

(obviously edited a bit by the DV)

(will be featured in zatiandfarha’s BOOK)

MUSLIM PROFESSIONALS FORUM STATEMENT

“Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” George Santayana (1863-1952)

The Muslim Professionals Forum (MPF) view with much concern the events that have unfolded the past few weeks which only testifies to the wisdom of the abovementioned verse.

Civil society and the world at large has been treated to dark images of the streets of Kuala Lumpur due to memory lapses on the part of both the government and the governed.

The unprecedented, highly inflammatory and malicious statements issued by P. Uthayakumar, as legal adviser to Hindraf (Hindu Rights Action Force), failed to recognized the decorum of civilized discourse and was calculated to incite racial and religious discord among Malaysians.

The perennial denial of her citizens to a peaceful assembly and the inappropriate show of force by the police only serve to demonstrate an unduly autocratic political governance out of sync with the higher aspirations of the democratic process.

THE MUSLIM PROFESSIONALS FORUM (MPF) TAKING COGNISANCE OF THE ABOVE DO HEREBY:
1. URGE the leadership of Hindraf to furnish the legal evidence for their alleged grouses and grievances and cease the distortion and falsification of historical facts;

2. URGE the leadership of Hindraf to exhaust all the legal avenues within the Malaysian legal and judicial system to seek redress of their alleged discrimination and marginalisation;

3. URGE the government to respect and honour the fundamental right of the freedom of expression and peaceful assembly of her citizens;

4. URGE the government through the office of the Inspector General of Police to not inflame further the situation by its high handedness but instead observe due restraint;

5. URGE the government through the office of the Attorney General to study the Court action filed by Hindraf in the UK and to take the necessary preemptive steps relevant thereto;

6. CONDEMN in no uncertain terms the veiled threat of violence by some leaders of Hindraf if its demands are not met;

7. SUPPORT the aspirations of all Malaysians to treasure the peace and harmony we have thus far enjoyed and protect it against all forms of subversive elements.

Dr Mazeni bin Alwi
Chairman
Muslim Professionals Forum Berhad

INTERNATIONAL NEWS
Statement from organisers of ‘Understanding Hamas’
(Forthcoming lecture by Azzam Tamimi, 4/12/06)

At 7pm on Monday 4th December, Dr. Azzam Tamimi, director of the Institute of Islamic Political Thought, will speak at Edinburgh University’s Appleton Tower on ‘Understanding Hamas’. He will sell signed copies of his new book, Hamas: Unwritten Chapters (C. Hurst & Co., London, 2006), priced at £15.

In the face of criticism and accusations, we, the three organising societies, reiterate our commitment to host this important event and invite our critics to engage with their minds and desist from knee-jerk reactions and politically motivated smears.

The Speaker and Topic
As well as being an accomplished academic, Dr. Tamimi comments regularly on the Arab and Western media, particularly on issues related to Middle Eastern politics and Islamism. He was an important consultant on the BBC’s Power of Nightmares documentaries and has his own Comment is Free column at the Guardian. He has long been a prominent voice of Palestinian resistance and is well known as a speaker in the British anti-war movement.

Crucial to understanding the ongoing violence and discord in the Middle East is analysis of the discourses maintained by various actors in the conflict. Since its formation, Hamas (the Islamic Resistance Movement) has most closely represented the Islamic trend within the broad Palestinian resistance movement. As of January 2006, it now represents the democratically elected government of Palestine. This is a reality that must be accepted.

Dr. Tamimi is an important analyst of this reality, being an expert on the history, principles and tactics of the Hamas organisation, which in fact has two main dimensions: social and military. Whilst not being a member, he has close relationships with many of its leading players. A fact that upsets some of our critics is that Dr. Tamimi describes himself as a ‘supporter’ of Hamas. This, we maintain, has no bearing on our keenness to hear his views.

In the last few years, there have been several visits to the Edinburgh University campus by representatives of the Israeli government. Most recently, Shimon Mercer-Wood of their London embassy spoke at an event hosted by the Politics Society, alongside Baroness Jenny Tonge. Inevitably, Hamas – as the ruling party, and a significant grassroots organisation – featured heavily in the discussion, particularly from its Israeli critic. Absent from the debate was a Palestinian voice, let alone one representing the perspective of Hamas. We believe that this balance deserves to be redressed.

The Event and its Critics
The aim of the event is to hear about this important topic from a highly qualified speaker, and to allow students and academics to make up their own minds. There will be ample time for questions and discussion, which we insist must be in the spirit of understanding, as our chosen title implies.

It is disappointing that the campus Jewish Society have so misrepresented the speaker as ‘anti-Semitic’, and the event as promoting ‘racist discourse’. It is understandable that they are opposed to Hamas, but these exaggerations do little to support their complaints, which we invited them to share with us directly. If they claim that any discussion of Hamas – other than in a context of explicit condemnation – is ‘anti-Semitic behaviour’, then we refute that as irrational and against basic freedom of speech and enquiry. We stand together against anti-Semitism in all its forms: and opposition to Zionism and the apartheid state of Israel is not one of these forms. Claiming so is nothing but a tactic of intimidation.

The event is about understanding, not promoting. We, the organisers, do not necessarily endorse the views of this or any other speaker, let alone the group he is speaking about. We respect the right of all our members to hold their own views on matters of such contention, and we as societies do not take particular positions. Dr. Tamimi himself does not necessarily endorse every statement of Hamas; for example, he has advocated revising its Charter to remove reference to an anti-Semitic forged document. He is clearly opposed to allowing the debate to be tarnished by racism, as are we, the organisers.

We hope this event will provoke informed debate on campus and in the wider society, and in light of the government’s intrusive guidelines to universities about ‘extremism’, it is a chance to underline our University’s commitment to freedom of speech, of which we are very proud. This is an issue of concern to students and others who are keenly aware of developments in the Middle East, therefore the ‘Understanding Hamas’ will be a welcome contribution to the debate.

Islamic Society of Edinburgh University
Edinburgh University Stop the War Coalition
Edinburgh University Palestine Solidarity Society

PRESS RELEASE
Islamic Society Reiterates Commitment to Interfaith Dialogue
2nd December 2006 – Immediate release
Contact: Sohaib Saeed, 07973 708 928

The Islamic Society of Edinburgh University today expressed their regret at the decision of the Edinburgh University Jewish Society to pull out of the planned campus Interfaith Week in March 2006.

The week of events is to promote understanding of the various faith communities at the University and to tackle misconceptions. As well as the Islamic and Jewish societies, the key organisers are the Christian Union and Baha’i Society.

The Jewish Society’s decision follows the publicity of an event on ‘Understanding Hamas’ hosted by the Islamic Society, the Stop the War Coalition and the Palestine Solidarity Society. The University authorities have clarified that they are committed to freedom of speech and will allow the event to go ahead, given that its express aim is to increase ‘Understanding’ among students and academics, who are invited to listen to an expert and then participate in discussion.

The speaker, Dr. Azzam Tamimi, is a leading academic and commentator on Islamic political thought as well as Middle Eastern affairs, and is launching his new book at the event, entitled Hamas: Unwritten Chapters (Hurst, London, 2006). While a leading critic of Zionism, he frequently speaks against anti-Semitism and bigotry.

Reacting to the Jewish Society’s decision, Islamic Society President Abdulla Mashaal said: ‘We are very sad at this decision, which doesn’t make sense to us. We value our relations with the Jewish Society, which have included mutual visits to our places of worship. They are implicating us in anti-Semitism even though they know how opposed we are to any form of racism. We hope they will reconsider soon, so that all our faith societies can continue to work together for the common good.’

*For further details, contact Sohaib Saeed, 07973 708 928

Notes: 1. The event is 7pm-9pm on Monday 4th December at Edinburgh University’s Appleton Tower. Admission is £2.

2. Dr. Tamimi will sell signed copies of his new book, Hamas: Unwritten Chapters (C. Hurst & Co., London, 2006), priced at £15.

3. The three organising societies have prepared a detailed statement of commitment to the event going ahead despite criticism. This is available by e-mailing press@isoced.org.