Highly Offensive For Public University To Engage In Demonising Religious Minority

This is the second time UiTM has conducted such a seminar, the first being in May 2014. The difference on this occasion was the participation of the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM), which has been defended by the Inspector General of Police himself. The police have unfortunately allowed themselves to be drawn into this display of skewed biasness.

It is wholly unacceptable for a public university, utilising public funds, to undertake activities that demonises a religious minority. This is highly offensive. No government should condone such activity, and we are appalled by the seeming irresponsible inaction on the part of the Government of Malaysia in permitting this to have taken place.

Academic freedom requires objectivity and balance, not a one-sided partisan rant and rave. Should anyone wish to discuss this supposed threat of “Christianisation”, let it take place in the open, with participation from the national Christian community. Let the allegations be supported with proper research and concrete evidence, not wild anecdotes and unverified assertions.

We call on the Government of Malaysia to put an end to the distasteful and disgusting derogatory activities of this nature. Instrumentalities and agencies of the government, such as the PDRM, must refrain from participating and lending legitimacy to frivolous allegations and unsubstantiated claims.

As we enter into the celebration of Christmas, we remind the Government of Malaysia of its constitutional obligation to protect, promote and uphold the freedom of religion and fundamental liberties of ALL Malaysians, and not just of the Muslim majority.

Yours Sincerely,

Rev. Dr. Eu Hong Seng,
Chairman and the Executive Committee, Christian Federation of Malaysia