By Selangor Journal Team
SHAH ALAM, Dec 31 — Politicians must exercise caution before issuing any statements that can stir public discontent, particularly on issues concerning the Islamic religion, said state executive councillor for unity Datuk Rizam Ismail.
This is after DAP’s Beruas MP Datuk Ngeh Koo Ham issued a controversial statement on Thursday urging for non-Muslim constitutional experts to be included in the committee studying the formulation of Islamic laws.
The special committee was formed by the National Council for Islamic Religious Affairs (MKI) and chaired by the Sultan of Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah Alhaj.
Rizam said it is pertinent that political parties in the Unity Government focus their efforts on ensuring the success of the development agenda for the prosperity of the nation and the well-being of the people, instead of inciting disharmony.
This, he said, is in line with the spirit of Malaysia Madani championed by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
“It is better for all parties, especially political leaders, MPs and assemblymen, to take a more cautious approach in the future before issuing any statements that can appear to look like they represent their party.
“This is pertinent to avoid public disturbance, especially the Malays, relating to their special rights as enshrined under the Federal Constitution and state enactments,” he said in a statement last night.
Rizam said as the head of MKI, Sultan Sharafuddin has the wisdom and expertise to lead the special committee studying issues related to the competency of state legislative assemblies in enacting Islamic laws which Ngeh should respect.
He also expressed support for His Royal Highness’ statement that non-Muslims must respect and not interfere in matters related to Islam.
“I call on all Malaysians to uphold the advice of the Sultan of Selangor, respect the sanctity of the constitution and look forward as a united nation for the sake of our country’s peace and prosperity.”
On Thursday, Ngeh issued a statement calling for non-Muslim to be included in the special committee announced on November 21 after noticing that all members were Muslim.
Subsequently, Sultan Sharafuddin reminded the people, especially non-Muslims, to respect and not to interfere in matters related to Islam in the country.
He stressed that MKI is entrusted with the responsibility to oversee all matters related to the Muslim community, and that the council consists of experts knowledgeable in various fields, particularly those involving Islamic law and religion.
Yesterday, Anwar said he fully supports the decree issued by the Sultan of Selangor for all not to interfere in matters related to Islam, and asked the non-Muslims to write to MKI if they have any concerns.
Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari, meanwhile, said views and comments like Ngeh’s controversial proposal were unnecessary, and that the Malaysia Madani concept upheld by the Unity Government is the best defence for Islam, above all others.
Ngeh has since apologised for his remarks and retracted his proposal, saying he was unaware that the special committee was formed by MKI.
“As such, I hereby withdraw my proposal and tender my sincere apology. I have no intention whatsoever to interfere in Islamic affairs,” he said in a statement yesterday.
