‘Non-Muslims should not be afraid’ of RUU355

Supporters, mostly clad in purple, have begun sitting on the field under the scorching sun.

KUALA LUMPUR: Non-Muslims should not be afraid of the Private Member’s Bill by PAS president Datuk Seri Abdul Hadi Awang as it will not affect them, claimed a supporter.

This is because the freedom to practise one’s religion is enshrined in the Federal Constitution, said PAS Supporters Congress (DHPP) chief N. Balasubramaniam.

“This Bill has nothing to do with non-Muslims, why are they worried?” he told supporters gathered at Padang Merbok on Saturday for the “Himpunan 355” rally.

The rally, organised by PAS, is to show support of Abdul Hadi's Bill ahead of the Parliament session next month.

The Bill seeks to increase the penalties of the Syariah Courts (Criminal Jurisdiction) Act 1965 (Act 355).

Another speaker, former history teacher D. Sivan, said Prophet Muhammad SAW had always preached the equality of all religions.

“If there are some who don’t support RUU355, come and see me and I will give you an explanation,” he said.