Multi-religious council wants Zakir Naik's visa withdrawn
PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian Consultative Council of Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism and Taoism (MCCBCHST) has called for the Government to revoke the visa granted to preacher Dr Zakir Naik.
In a statement on Wednesday, the consultative council expressed its regret that authorities have not taken action to prevent Indian national Dr Zakir from entering the country.
"Malaysia has a reputation of being a tolerant, multi-religious and pluralistic democracy. It also positions herself as a moderate Muslim polity.
"Purported teachers of religion that are sponsored, even by state authorities, that have a tendency to incite hatred, odium and contempt on the practices, rituals and food of other ethno-religious groups are totally unacceptable," said the council.
The council also referred to specific sections in Malaysia's Penal Code that protect against actions that offend the religious feelings of others as well as fostering hatred or disharmony on the grounds of religion.
It said that Dr Zakir was highly provocative to non-Muslim communities, adding that he had been banned from entering certain countries.
"The council supports freedom of speech and expression, but any discourse touching on religion and beliefs should be subject to the parameters set forth in the Penal Code generally and, more specifically, to the bar of public reason and civility.
"MCCBCHST, therefore, calls upon the Government to withdraw the visa granted to Dr Zakir Naik to be in Malaysia," it said.Read more at http://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2017/03/09/zakir-naik-multi-religious-council/#Y45UYTzEy54317pz.99
