DECEMBER 16 — About a week ago, an open letter was sent to the Prime Minister by 25 prominent Malay-Muslim figures who were also esteemed government officials and academicians that have served the country tremendously. The open letter called for, among others, a rational discourse over the application of Islamic laws in Malaysia. As a group of concerned youths, the call is deeply appreciated and we declare our support for the path towards moderation and understanding and we are appalled by the insolent remarks directed at these 25 figures by certain groups.

Without a healthy exercise of freedom of expression, democracy cannot flourish. Renowned constitutional law expert, Emeritus Professor Datuk Dr. Shad Saleem Faruqi wrote in his book, Document of Destiny, that democracy “requires” the citizens “to have a say in the policies and decisions that affect their lives.”

He added that “discussion before decision is the sine qua non of a democratic polity. But no discussion is possible if there is no right to speech, assembly and association. These rights are, therefore, the essential pillars of a democratic set-up; the life-blood of a free society”.

This is in line with the call by the 25 prominent Malay-Muslims for a “consultative process” that allows individuals from various background to an open discussion on the issues arising like usage of Islam as a source of public law and policy in Malaysia.

Such call could not have been timelier. For certain groups, any attempt to bring about alternative views of the Syariah-related laws and policy is seen as “challenging” the position of Islam in the country. Enforcement of a single ‘mainstream’ view are publicly promoted, with brave individuals who dared to dissent being condemned either politically or legally (those prosecuted under the Sedition Act or Sisters In Islam being banned by a ‘fatwa’ are among the examples).

‘Sensitivities’ of the Malay-Muslim community is often used as a justification to deter opinions, which seem to differ with such ‘mainstream’ view. The pattern has repelled many from voicing out their opinions and surely, discouraged a truly intellectually productive platform of discussions among citizens as to whether the man-made laws affecting them are just laws or otherwise.

Should an open dialogue be conducted, Muslim and non-Muslims alike will have the golden opportunity to voice out their views with regard to the issue concerned. The pursuit of equality and justice should not be a matter belonging exclusively to one portion of society and that portion only.  For any laws affecting a section of Malaysians should be of concern to all Malaysians, notwithstanding their religious or ethnic background. Review of such laws would be able to provide justice to those who are affected. How can the dignity of Islam be upheld when citizens’ rights are being openly oppressed in its name?

Furthermore, such a call would also promote national unity in Malaysia — a national unity not based on ethnicity but on respect, understanding, accepting and equality. For the past few years, our country has been marred with various statements and incidents that have strayed our country from the path of moderation. Extremisms and exclusivity must be rejected, as it would further hinder Malaysians from working together.

Our diversity and rich cultural history should be a cause for celebration and inspiration — a Malaysian image which is often promoted by the media but not practiced truthfully, by our national leaders. Even the Quran, Chapter 49 verse 11 prohibits Muslims to belittle others for they may be better than us and encourages Muslims to share the values of other races. What could be a better motivation?

The youths are the pinnacle of Malaysia’s future. The legacy that is to be handed down to these future leaders are of paramount importance. The action taken and the words spoken by the leaders would affect the minds of the young people, who will see them as either an inspiration or a symbol of hierarchical ignorance.

Most importantly, rational discourses and open dialogue would promote a culture of mutual respect and inclusiveness. Let’s support and uphold the voice of moderation together for a better Malaysia!

* This is a media statement from Gabungan Bertindak Malaysia-Anak Bangsa Malaysia  (GBM-ABM) Youths.

** This is the personal opinion of the writer or organisation and does not necessarily represent the views of Malay Mail Online.