Ikram on Eric Paulsen's remark

KENYATAAN MEDIA
Pertubuhan IKRAM Malaysia (IKRAM)

15 Januari 2015 bersamaan 24 Rabiulawal 1436H

TOWARDS ‘NEGARA RAHMAH’ (NATION OF MERCY) – ENHANCING DIALOGUE

Pertubuhan IKRAM Malaysia (IKRAM) is committed to creating a peaceful and harmonious society in Malaysia based on the ‘Negara Rahmah’ (Nation of Mercy) underpinned by the principles of Syariah.

In pursuing this objective, IKRAM is committed to resisting all forms of intolerance, bigotry, hatred and provocation, whether they are racial or religious, from permeating in society.

IKRAM also abhors all forms of violencae, extremism and hate speech. In the same vein, IKRAM has been involved in civil society movements aimed at social inclusion, resisting all forms of discrimination, exploitation, injustices and protecting the nation from the incursion of extremist elements.

IKRAM would like to register our strong objection to statements ascribed to Eric Paulsen which portrayed the Friday sermons as a tool to promote extremism.

IKRAM believes that the statement probably arise from a misunderstanding of the Islamic rituals. However, public statements as such, coming from an educated Malaysian citizen is totally uncalled for. It reflects disrespect to other religions.

At the same time, IKRAM disapproves the usage of Sedition Act to deal with this case. In the Seerah of Rasulullah SAW, when he was criticised, he will argue and dialogue with the best arguments. We should be reminded of the verse of the Quran:

"O ye who believe! Stand out firmly for Allah, as witnesses to fair dealing, and let not the hatred of others to you make you swerve to wrong and depart from justice. Be just: that is next to Piety: and fear Allah. For Allah is well acquainted with all that you do.” (Al-Maidah 5:8).

IKRAM believes that the way forward for resolving issues pertaining to race and religion is through education and dialogue.

For this very reason, we are engaging with all our partners in civil society through rational discourse and dialogue to promote mutual respect and understanding among all races and religions.

It is our fervent hope that these efforts will result in a more inclusive Malaysian society.

Prof Madya Badlishah Sham Baharin

Chairman
Civil Society Affairs Committee
PERTUBUHAN IKRAM MALAYSIA

👆 sharing Ikram's views on Eric Paulsen remark which potrayed the friday sermons as tools to promote extremism