Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Seri Jamil Khir Baharom found himself in the spotlight today over the government’s stand on the usage of the word “Allah” by Christians in Malaysia.
He started off on the wrong footing when he said that the 10-point solution on the “Allah” issue was agreed upon during the formation of Malaysia in 1963, confusing it with the 20-point agreement with Sabah.
Reiterating that the usage of the word “Allah” in Malaysia is exclusive to Muslims, Jamil said: “This has already been agreed upon during the formation of Malaysia.”
However, despite having his mistake pointed out, Jamil refused to respond to questions by Opposition lawmakers.
“Are you confused, minister? That is the 20-point agreement with Sabah (in 1963) not the 10-point solution made in 2011,” Oscar Ling Chai Yew (DAP-Sibu) interjected.
Jamil, who is in charge of islamic affairs, said although the 10-point solution applies to East Malaysia, yet the word “Allah” is exclusive for Muslims in Malaysia according to State level Islamic laws.
“Just state clearly whether or not Christians are free to use the word ‘Allah’ in East Malaysia,” Datuk Mahfuz Omar (PAS-Pokok Sena) told the minister.
Tian Chua (PKR-Batu) then urged Jamil to clearly state the government’s stand.
“I want to know if the government has three different stands on the issue or the minister’s statement will be the final decision?” he said.
Jamil Khir said state Islamic law had gazetted certain words, namely “Allah”, “Baitullah”, “Solat” and “Kaabah”, that are prohibited from being used by non-Muslims.
“It is exclusive only to Muslims and cannot be used by any other religion to refer to their God.
“The matter has been brought to court and has been decided upon. Thus, it should be respected and not argued upon,” he said.
Jamil said he was referring to the National Council of Islamic Affairs and the Islamic Affairs Department, when he mentioned “it is the government’s stand”.
He also brushed off reporters when asked to explain his statement clearly on the “Allah” issue.
“I have already explained. Don’t confuse me more,” he said.-TheSunDaily
