Statement by 
Dr Tan Seng Giaw, DAP National Vice-Chairman and MP for Kepong 
during meet-the-people campaign in Bercham, Ipoh
on 8 June, 2002

We call on the Prime Minister to reconsider his decision declaring Malaysia an Islamic State, because the decision has serious implications

The Malaysian Federal Constitution does not allow for the use of any religion to rule the country. We believe in the spirit of this constitution.

PAS talk about Islamic State and Syariah Criminal Law. We insist that in this multi-religious country, Islamic State or Syariah Criminal Law is not suitable.

Dr Mahathir made the above-mentioned announcement to counter PAS. Those who believe in Islamic State do not accept what he has said. However much Barisan Nasional reiterates that its (or UMNO's) brand of Islamic State is moderate, it has caused disquiet.

The final objective of any Islamic State is administration based on the Koran. Only those Muslims conversant with the Koran will be able to interpret it. Then, on which holy book is BN or UMNO's version of Islamic State based? How is it so moderate?