He should not interfere in local politics, says mufti

PETALING JAYA: Datuk Dr Mohd Asri Zainul Abidin (pic) has hit out at Muslim leaders who have “selectively” condemned Zakir Naik, but added that it was inappropriate for the controversial preacher to comment on local politics.

The Perlis mufti told an online portal that some Malay leaders in government were quick to defend those who had criticised Zakir, but were not quick to criticise those who had insulted Islam.

“There is not any religious value left in them, ” he was quoted as saying.

Mohd Asri also criticised those who ignored the dominance of Malays in the country, arguing that the idea that all races are equal does not exist in practice even in Western countries.

“A country has its identity. China is for Chinese, is India for the Chinese too? No, it’s for the Indians.

“What about Malaysia, Tanah Melayu? If China is for the Chinese and the Indian subcontinent is for the Indians, can Tanah Melayu be for all?

“Of course, justice is for all, but there must be a dominant race, ” he said.

In Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territories Minister Khalid Abdul Samad said Zakir should steer clear of Malaysian politics and not allow himself to be used by certain parties with a “pernicious political agenda”.

Khalid said for the past six decades, Malaysia had thrived socially and economically thanks to the mutual respect accorded to everyone regardless of their race or religion.

“This is the formula that we, Malaysia, have adopted to ensure continuous peace and prosperity are maintained and enjoyed by all.

“The unity among the citizens was what kept the country together through thick and thin and it is most unwise for us to tear that apart now, ” he said.

Khalid added that it was because Malaysia was a peaceful and harmonious country that the preacher from India could even make a home here.

“It is our hope that he too can respect our rights for safe and peaceful racial relations, ” he said.