Interfaith Dialog in Malaysia: Navigating Challenges and Opportunities

In Malaysia, a nation celebrated for its multicultural fabric, interfaith dialogue faces significant hurdles despite its crucial role in fostering understanding and social harmony. Past controversies and growing religious polarization have created a complex landscape where open discussions are frequently enough fraught with tension.

Recent Setbacks and Lingering Sensitivities

Recent events underscore the delicate nature of interfaith relations in Malaysia. In March 2023, Hannah Yeoh, the Minister of Youth and Sports, faced intense scrutiny over the “Jom Ziarah Gereja” (Let’s Visit a Church) program. The program was part of a larger initiative to foster interfaith understanding. Accusations of proselytizing Christianity to Muslim youth, despite clarifications that no Muslims were “involved,” led to parliamentary inquiries and police investigations.She had to cancel the program, and reassign other programmes to other ministers to avoid similar religiously-charged claims.

this incident reflects broader challenges,including state “prohibitions” on visiting houses of worship and the September 2023 ban of the indie film “Mentega Terbang,” which portrayed a Muslim teenager questioning her faith and was banned for alleged violations of Islamic beliefs. These restrictions have emerged amid “rising religious polarisation, especially among the youth.”

Youth Distrust and the Importance of Exposure

Surveys conducted by the merdeka Center between 2019 and 2024 indicate a concerning trend: Malaysian youth “trust individuals from their own ethnic and religious groups more than those outside them.” This insularity highlights the urgent need for initiatives that bridge divides. However, social psychologist Ananthi Al Ramiah’s research offers a glimmer of hope, revealing that exposure to other religions “considerably reduced” negative perceptions among highly religious respondents. In 2022, 69% of Malaysians deemed religion “vrey important,” underscoring the need for interfaith activities that foster understanding.

A History of Interfaith Efforts

Formal interfaith organizations in Malaysia date back to the 1970s. The Malaysian Consultative Council of Buddhism,Christianity,Hinduism,Sikhism and Taoism (MCCBCHST) organized the first known interfaith conference,“The Role of Religion in Nation Building,” in 1984.The dialogues were a “reaction to the ‘Islamisation process beginning in the early 1970s’ in Malaysia.” In 1987, Islamic NGOs formed the Islamic Outreach ABIM Centre (IOAC). The 1990s saw an expansion of interfaith efforts, including dialogues and academic initiatives.

Decline and Dormancy

despite this history, interfaith efforts have waned in recent years. The Malaysian Interfaith network (MIN), which once coordinated high-profile dialogues, has been “inactive” since 2020. Further The Interfaith Harmony Committee was only recently reactivated after years of dormancy. Conversations with NGO leaders confirm that interfaith activities remain scarce, and data is hard to find.

Controversial Issues and key Flashpoints

The decline stems from the history of past discussions and dialogues on major interfaith issues, which have been highly controversial and confrontational. For interfaith groups, issues like voluntary and forced conversions, apostasy, the use of “Allah” by non-muslims, and the destruction of religious sites have proven “too explosive to be discussed.”

The Abandoned Interfaith Commission Bill

A critical moment occurred in 2005 when the Malaysian Bar Council (MBC) convened a national conference to discuss a bill to establish a national interfaith commission. A coalition of Muslim NGOs boycotted it, with the Allied Coordinating Committee of Islamic NGOs (ACCIN) arguing that the proposals “threatened Islam,” allegedly facilitated apostasy, and allowed Muslims to renounce Islam. Then-Prime Minister Abdullah Badawi “abandoned” the bill and shifted the focus to smaller-scale interactions, such as open houses during major festivals.

Increased

What is the impact of recent events like the “Jom ziarah Gereja” controversy and the ban on the film “Mentega Terbang” on the interfaith landscape in Malaysia?

Navigating Interfaith Dialog in Malaysia: A conversation with Dato’ Dr. Ahmad Farouk Musa, Founder of Islamic Renaissance Front

Recent Setbacks and Lingering Sensitivities

Archyde: Dato’ Dr. Farouk, let’s start by discussing the recent challenges in interfaith relations in Malaysia, such as the “Jom Ziarah Gereja” controversy and the ban on the film “Mentega Terbang.” How have these events impacted the interfaith landscape?

Dato’ dr. Farouk: these events have sadly regressed our interfaith relations. They show that we’re still far from fostering an environment where open dialogues can flourish. The bans and investigations have created fear and mistrust, illustrating the deep-seated sensitivities that exist.

Youth Distrust and the Importance of Exposure

Archyde: Surveys indicate that Malaysian youth trust those from their own ethnic and religious groups more than others. Yet, exposure to other religions can reduce negative perceptions. What are your thoughts on this paradox?

Dato’ Dr. Farouk: This is indeed a paradox, but it’s also an chance. We should capitalize on the importance youth attach to religion and use that as a catalyst for interfaith understanding. By engaging them in constructive dialogue and fostering exposure to other beliefs, we can bridge divides and promote empathy.

A History of Interfaith Efforts

Archyde: Interfaith efforts in Malaysia date back decades. Could you tell us about some notable initiatives and their impact?

Dato’ Dr. Farouk: Indeed, we’ve had many initiatives, like the MCCBCHST’s 1984 conference and IOAC’s work. These efforts played a crucial role in bringing different faiths together. However, their impact has been diluted over time due to various factors, including political influences and societal polarization.

decline and Dormancy

Archyde: Despite this history, interfaith efforts seem to have declined in recent years. Why do you think this is the case?

dato’ Dr. Farouk: There are several reasons. Firstly, the sensitive nature of interfaith discussions can lead to backlash, which discourages further dialogue. secondly, there’s a lack of sustained effort and resources dedicated to these initiatives. Lastly, political involvement can sometimes muddy the waters, making it harder for constructive conversations to take place.

Controversial Issues and Key Flashpoints

Archyde: Issues like conversions and the use of “Allah” have been contentious. How can interfaith groups navigate these flashpoints to make progress?

Dato’ Dr. Farouk: It’s crucial to approach these issues with empathy and a willingness to understand different perspectives. We must foster a spirit of mutual respect and a shared desire for understanding, rather than confrontation. We also need to focus on areas of common ground and shared values, rather than getting bogged down in contentious issues.

The Abandoned Interfaith Commission Bill

Archyde: The abandoned Interfaith Commission Bill in 2005 was a significant setback.What lessons can we learn from this episode?

Dato’ Dr. Farouk: We’ve learned that a top-down approach isn’t sufficient for fostering interfaith dialogue. We need sustained effort from the grassroots up, involving communities and religious leaders. We also need clear, consistent policies that support and protect these endeavors.

Looking Ahead: Thoughts for the Future

Archyde: Lastly, Dato’ Dr. Farouk,what’s your vision for interfaith dialogue in Malaysia in the next decade?

dato’ Dr. Farouk: I envision a future where interfaith dialogue is a norm rather than an exception. A future where our diversity is celebrated, and our common humanity is recognized. A future where open, respectful discussions help us navigate our differences and strengthen our social fabric. But to achieve this,we must start now,with sustained effort and unwavering commitment.

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