Media statement by Lim Guan Eng in DAP Headquarters, Petaling Jaya on Thursday, 9^th September 2010: 

DAP strongly condemns a plan by a Christian pastor in the United States to burn copies of Al-Quran to mark the terrorist attack by Al-Qaeda on September 11 

DAP strongly condemns a plan by a Christian pastor in the United States to burn copies of Al-Quran to mark the terrorist attack by Al-Qaeda on September 11, that wiped out the famed Twin Towers of New York. Such acts will only breed more hate and violence among people of different faiths.

DAP is against any form of hate crime, racism and extreme religious act whether it is committed locally or internationally. We stand for dialogues, consultation and debates rather than violence and extremism.

We call on all Malaysians regardless of race and religion to condemn this dangerous and moronic act of desecrating copies of the holy book of Quran. The American authorities must prevent this proposed burning of the Quran from happening so as not to inflame sentiments amongst Muslims especially when they are celebrating the holy Hari Raya Aidilfitri.

The American pastor Terry Jones had claimed that he wanted to "to send a message to radical Islam that we will not tolerate their behavior." However, he is mistaking the tree for the forest. His ridiculous plan will not only anger Muslims globally. drive moderate Muslims away and also distort the peaceful image of Christianity that preaches love and respects all faiths.

While terrorism, whether committed by religious fanatics or by state sponsorship, must be condemned; the idea of burning the Quran - the holy book for more than a billion Muslims all over the world - is just outrageous and unacceptable.

DAP feels that the proper way to commemorate the anniversary of the 911 attacks "is to offer solidarity with those affected by the attacks and pray for them" by ensuring that it will never be repeated again.

I am confident that all Christians as well as people of different faiths in Malaysia will honour the memory of those who perished on September 11 with prayers, solidarity and a common resolve towards peace, justice and respect in a shared society. We must also strengthen our resolve to combat terrorism and violence committed in the name of religion.

To Muslims in Malaysia and everywhere else, we offer our sincere friendship and solidarity against any form of attacks on the sacred faith. May these holy months of Ramadan and Syawal bring us peace, joy and love. Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri.

*Lim Guan Eng, DAP Secretary General & Penang Chief Minister