“Don’t make us shut down all churches in Malaysia!” Woman rants over “Allah” issue

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are the author’s own and is a compilation of public opinions on the subject matter. They do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of WeirdKaya.

Malaysia is a nation blessed with multiracial harmony, where people of different religions live peaceably with one another. Unfortunately, there are times when that same harmony is being put to the test.

Last Thursday (March 11), a lady who goes by the name of “Puteri Mujahidah Wan Asshima Kamaruddin” went on a 12-minute rant in a Facebook video, where she expressed strong reactions towards the High Court’s recent decision to allow Christians to use “Allah” in their publications.

“The constitution of Malaysia allows other religions to exist, but they should never be allowed to challenge Islam’s position as the official religion.”

In the video, she questioned why Christians insist on using “Allah” to address God when they can use other words such as “Tuhan” instead. She also said that Christians who use “Allah” are challenging Islam’s status as Malaysia’s official religion and insulting Muslims as well.

“Don’t force us [Muslims] to shut down all churches here! This is my right as a Malaysian!”

Towards the end of the video, she called upon all Muslims to “wake up” and protect their faith by protesting against the court’s decision to legalise the use of “Allah” for other religions.

The video quickly went viral and garnered almost 700k views and 12K comments. Her extreme stance on the court’s decision has sparked huge outrage online.

According to Sarawak Police Commissioner Datuk Aidi Ismail, a total of 37 police reports were filed against the video for allegedly insulting Christians. He also mentioned that the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) had launched an investigation into the case.

It will be investigated under Section 4(1) of the Sedition Act 1948 and Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1988.

“If you are not satisfied with something, you must use the right channel and based upon the laws of the country,” said Ismail.

Netizens were split over the issue, with many disapproving the woman’s opinions on the usage of “Allah”, while others voiced their support.

A netizen named Aurora Trisha said that the woman could have aired her opinions more gently as one’s personality reflects his/her attitude towards religion and their way of life.

Another said that “Allah” is just another word for “God” in a different language.

Others believed that what she said was meaningful and urged the Minister of Religious Affairs to give a proper explanation to the people.

Some also hoped that the Department of Islamic Development (JAKIM) would be more proactive in preventing similar incidents from happening again.

Sources: (FB/Puteri Mujahidah Wan Asshima Kamaruddin, The Borneo Post)

Editor: Raymond Chen
Proofreader: Sarah Yeoh