The abandoned forum in Penang

The New Sunday Times 21 May 2006 had an interview with one of those who protested against the forum.
Some comments...

"Q: But Muslims were among panelists at the forum?

A: Unfortunately, other Muslims do not see them as representative of the community. They have their own secular, liberal, understanding of Islam. They want Syariah to be placed along with universal values and are in favour of a secular society in a secular state.

Because they are not representing the Muslim community, they are actually representing a secular minority group. We feel that what they stand for is their own perception of Islam.

They want Islam to be just a private matter and that Syariah law should only be used in handling private matters. They do not represent the community or what Islam stands for in this country."

I guess everything is already cast in stone. We can't even discuss certain issues among Muslims. If one authority has declared that his interpretation is the correct version, everyone has to follow. Haven't we learnt from history itself that Islam went through a lot of upheavals. There were lots of views, interpretations and discussions. Shouldn't that be the norm rather than the exception?

"Q: What should Article 11 do to defuse the situation?

A: There are mechanisms to address their grievances. They can meet the Attorney-General since some of the cases they discussed included conversion.

The forum touched on issues that have already been decided upon. If people don’t agree, they have to meet the A-G and see if there is a mechanism to settle it.

That is better as you don’t need to arouse the sentiments of Muslims. But they start going around saying that Syariah is not protecting the rights of non-Muslims. This is absurd."

Isn't it an assumed conclusion that once someone had converted to Islam in Malaysia he is governed by the Syariah courts. What recourse does the non-Muslim family have in the Syariah courts? Usually the Syariah court judges are dismissive of those who seek the court's help as evidenced by the many instances of single mothers going countless times to get their rightful dues. What more someone of a different faith. Even a Muslim woman unveiled is asked to veil herself first before any proceeding will continue????

The controversy of conversions will continue as long as those in power do not show any compassion towards the non-Muslim family. I'm certain that Islam does not condone breaking families due to the conversion of one family member to the religion. This is where discussion is vital. The protesters can say what they want, but the responsibility is squarely on their shoulders to ensure that justice is meted out equally to the non-Muslim family. I wonder if they have ever thought of being in the other person's shoes???