IPOH: Politicising religious issues can trigger dispute and chaos that will prove very costly and take a long time to resolve, said Regent of Perak Raja Dr Nazrin Shah.
He urged the top political leaders to show a good example to the people by not sensationalising the issues.
"Islam is too sacred and cannot be compromised because of political interests and must be defended from any forms of desecration, implicitly or explicitly.
"Muslims must stand united against efforts to desecrate the sanctity of Islam," he said at the Perak-level Maulidur Rasul celebration.
Raja Nazrin reminded Muslims that they should not shy away from defending the sanctity of Islam just because they have different political beliefs.
"Such a stand will send the wrong message, undermine the strength of the Muslim community and bring more losses than gain."
The recent scenario relating to religious issues had caused a polemic between Muslims and Christians and could destabilise the nation.
"If this scenario failed to be defused, it is very dangerous," he added.
Extreme action from any party is also contrary to the principles of the 'wasatiyyah' (moderation) concept promoted by country's leadership.
Raja Nazrin said no party should sensationalise religious sentiments because psychologically, believers would defend their faiths at all cost.
"Nobody wants to accept defeat. As such, a wise solution has to be made to convince the parties in dispute.
"The act of lowering Islam and other religions does not reflect the character based on the spirit of the religion."
He said religious issues must be resolved by 'ulama' and scholars in the spirit of religions to ensure peace and harmony between the believers. - Bernama
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