(Petaling Jaya, Tuesday): DAP condemns the death threats made against HAKAM President and lawyer Malik Imtiaz Sarwar for his involvement in the Article 11 coalition, which is pressing for greater freedom for religion but is often accused of touching upon Muslim sensitivities. Malik had also held a watching brief for the Bar Council in the appeal by Joy against the decision by the National Registration Department to refuse to delete the word ‘Islam’ from her identity card.

Such death threats are worrying  as it shows that after 50 years of Merdeka, there are still Malaysian fanatics who resort to uncivilized and barbaric methods against those who do not share their views.

DAP praises Malik’s unstinting courage in reaffirming his determination to participate in the apostasy case and refusal to be deterred from pursuing what is to him, “a correct (constitutional) position, from my professional duties as a lawyer and freedom of opinion through violent and undemocratic means.”

DAP welcomes the condemnation of death threats not only made by non-Muslims but also Muslim groups contained in a pamphlet. Amongst the groups that condemned the death threats made against Malik are ABIM and other Muslim groups vehemently opposed towards Malik and Article 11. By turning their back on such violent threats, there is hope for a rational discussion on sensitive topics like religion.  Fanaticism and violence is bred and nurtured when there is no room for discussion.

DAP hopes that this death threat can serve as a catalyst towards greater discussion and communication between different religions. More importantly those opposed to Article 11 must allow freedom of opinion and avoid the language and acts of violence like disruption of forums and threats that Muslims are not subject to the Constitution in defending their faith.

DAP hopes that the police can provide police protection to ensure that the extremists do not carry out their threats. Malaysia’s international image will be irreparably damaged if any harm befalls a moderate Muslim and human rights activist like Malik.  

(22/08/2006)