To stay in power, will Najib push Malaysia into terrorism?

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 8: Prime Minister Najib Razak and his Umno-BN government received a shelling on Friday for precipitating religious tensions in the country, resulting in three churches being attacked and set to fire by Muslim extremists angered over a court ruling that allowed Christians to use the word Allah.

By Wong Choon Mei (Harakah)

““We condemn in the strongest way the attacks on the churches.This sort of action contradicts the teachings of Islam. It can only be done by people who do not understand their own religion,” said Abdul Hadi Awang, president of PAS, the largest Islamic-based political party in Malaysia.

"We had previously warned Umno against politicisng the Allah issue just to gain mileage with the Malay voters and we are now saddened to see the outcome," he added.

“At this testing time, the government needs to show leadership. Prime Minister Najib needs to show he will put the country first and not his party. He must not bow down to the extremists within his party,” said Ramon Navaratnam, chairman of Centre for Public Policy Studies.

Indeed, while Najib - who is also Umno president - has been quick to condemn the Molotov-cocktail attacks, he has refused to acknowledge that leaders within his party, including himself and his cousin Hishammuddin Hussein, had lit the fuse with their inflammatory racial rhetoric over the past few days.

“Don’t point the fingers at Umno or anyone else. We have always been very responsible. Don’t say this attack is motivated by Umno,” Najib snapped out at reporters.

Opening the door to terrorism

In fact, even as he spoke, Umno-backed protests were carried on at main mosques around Kuala Lumpur, including the government-funded National Mosque.

Huge banners flashing words like ‘Don't challenge Islam’ & ‘Allah is only for us’ were prominently placed, while NGOs and Muslim activists taking part shouted ‘Allahu Akbar’.

Concern is growing that despite the torching of the churches, more religious politicking and consequently public unrest is set to take place.

Said Ramon : “Until the PM takes firm action in nipping all this in the bud by ensuring that the culprits are quickly captured and brought to justice, until Najib sets in motion dialogue between the various religious groups and makes it clear that this is the way forward for everyone including Umno, the Allah row will not just continue, but it may even escalate.

“We have to be careful now. Is our government opening the door to religious extremism and extremist acts? Are we going to deteriorate into a terrorism country? Not only are Malaysians watching but the world is curious to see how we handle this. Not just the West but the Islamic Middle East as well. Our country’s good name is on the line and all eyes are on Najib and how he steers us out of this situation.”

Violence may spread to other parts

The Allah row flared up after top Umno leaders, including Women’s Minister Shahrizat Jalil and Trade Minister Mukhriz Mahathir, openly condemned last week’s court ruling. Hardline Muslim activists and groups were angered as they believe the word Allah is exclusive to their community.

But after in-depth study and debate, PAS’s council of religious experts have reiterated their stand that the Quran allows Allah to be used by non-Muslims. The council also urged dialogue with leaders of other faiths so that guidelines could be drawn to prevent unscrupulous parties from misusing the word and creating situations like what has just happened.

“Umno has to take full responsibility for the worsening of relations between people of different faiths in this country in its handling of the use of the word Allah,” said Zaid Ibrahim, PKR leader and a prominent lawyer.

"The irresponsible conduct of fanning the emotions by Umno leaders has brought about this dangerous situation. What we see today confirms that this country is being governed not by engagement consultation, sophistication or persuasion but by brute and mob force,” he said in a press statement.”

The Metro Tabernacle church in Kuala Lumpur was firebombed at just past midnight and its 1st floor office completely gutted. Molotov cocktails were hurled The Live Chapel and the Church of Assumption in Petaling Jaya, damaging the facilities. There were no reports of injuries.

Although the police have tried to play down the attacks, saying they were perpetuated by amateurs, there is growing worry that the over-zealousness will spread to other parts of the country. In particular, the mood is gloomy in East Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak, where there are strong Christian followings.

“This sort of violence reflects low mentality. Even though Umno is in denial mode, they have lost all credibility with the people. They should just stop trying to hoodwink us. Just imagine if anyone should dare to do this in Sabah or Sarawak, there will be thunder and lightning,” said Ronnie Klassen, a Sabah PKR leader.

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Comments (29) Add Comment

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written by popuri, January 11, 2010 14:16:52

Point 1 finger at us, and you're pointing 4 at yourself. Who are you trying to kid?

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written by popuri, January 11, 2010 14:15:21

We don't have to blame anyone. Those who did it knows it themselves. God have eyes, their time will come.

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written by capricorn, January 10, 2010 12:15:03

YES, YES, YES,......CORRECT, CORECT, CORRECT!!!!!!!!!!!!To stay in power, Najib will do anything. I repeat...ANYTHING. Have no doubt about that people. And are we going to let him do that??? If not what do we do or what can we do????? SIMPLE!!!!! Go to the ballot box and throw UMNO/BN out of Putrajaya. For thsoe who have not registered, please do so. Every vote counts. Remind your family members and your children to vote wisely for they are voting for their future well being and the well being of the country. It does not matter if your area is an UMNO stronghold or Opposition stronghold. What matters is your voice to the govt. and your power to elect the govt you want.

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written by Ihaveadream, January 09, 2010 13:08:20

Remember this? The audacity of the pm to lecture some world leaders at an international forum, recently, about how Malaysia is uniting all its citizens through its 1Malaysia idea and that they should adopt 1World idea to unite the whole world.

Bolocks, this has backfired and shamed him and the whole country. I'm sure most Malaysian cringed when they read this in the newspapers, I did. This is because I know its a load of bullshit and just a propaganda and that the government's idea of 1Malaysia is skewed and not 'tulen' at all. That they are incapable, corrupt, irresponsible, incompetent and all the negatives one can think of and, hence, the sad state of affairs of our country which will soon go down the road of anarchy.

This is what the malays call 'prasan', when we think we are smart and capable but in reality we are not. Put our house in order first then others would follow us.

Even up to now, what follow-through actions are they taking to gain the rakyats' and international communities confidence? Zilch but mere rhetorics are spewing from their mouths. Is this how one governs and manage a country like ours. If so, we do not need them but monkeys from the zoo. (sorry for being uncivil).

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written by IbnAbdHalim, January 09, 2010 12:10:59

UMNO can be in a denial mode but all fingers are pointing at them. It wouldn't have happened if there's no backing and encouragement from UMNO. Najib don't have to speak with two tongues if he truly wants to push ahead with his 1Malaysia concept. It's now time to show real leadership but I'm of the opinion that he's a complete failure.

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written by Takiaki, January 09, 2010 11:57:32

Even before anything else, just after the HC rulling, Najib already 'signalled' these people to demonstrate. How? by saying "please be calm....we understand your feeling (muslim)...we will appeal..." then when his people responded by announcing that they would demonstrate, he said "we cannot stop you....you have the right....bla...bla.." It seems subtle, but that was what they wanted from the very beginning.
Those bastards are mindless, brainless Najib-UMNO-worshipper. They would just follow whatever he says, even scooping and swallowing back their own faeces while defecating, if he says so. Now
imagine if Najib said otherwise, e.g. "Lets accept the decision, the suit was a mistake...alim ulama in this country and all over the world have clarified the matter....". "whoever raise the matter again or demonstrate will be arrested under ISA..." ...I know thats will only happens in our dream as long as UMNO are in power. Well, we know what to do in the next GE do we? How I wish it will be tomorrow!!!

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written by lysa, January 09, 2010 09:58:30

True, people only can develop and success if live in a peaceful and harmony country. Don't show us you are bias when it is issuing your own religion. Think positive, and have faith in God.

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written by Ben, January 09, 2010 09:19:19

Blessed be our Lord, for he was, is and forever will be our God. Continue to grant us your favour Lord and bring peace to Malaysia in our time of need. Have mercy on those who desecrated your church and forgive them, for they know not what they do. Grant wisdom to our leaders and guide their hearts to do the right and right the wrongs. Send your intercessors to stand in the gap. May Your will be done here in Malaysia, as it is in heaven. Forgive us, Lord, as we forgive others who trespass against us for Yours is the kingdom, the power and the glory, now and forever. Amen.

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written by Kacang Tanah, January 09, 2010 08:56:31

BN is just waiting for opportunity to declare emergency throughout the country so that they can take over states rule by Pakatan.

If the governmnet has the power to clamp down candle light vigils, BERSIH rally, Anti-ISA rally and others which are peaceful rallies, why can't they stop this protest even they forsee it is going to cause a lot of chaos and destruction?

Plan A: Katak lompat
Plan B: Penyiasatan MACC & PDRM
Plan C: Pengisythiharan EMERGENCY
Plan D: Operasi Lalang

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written by Naksam, January 09, 2010 08:44:17

It's perception Najib, you can say anything you want but at the end, what the rakyat and the rest of the world think of that's count. I am not a pendatang, I don't have a place to run and hide myself from all these shameful drama.

My Allah save my future generation. Ho I wish that GE13 is tomorrow. .

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written by Nasikerabu, January 09, 2010 08:30:21

“Don’t point the fingers at Umno or anyone else. We have always been very responsible. Don’t say this attack is motivated by Umno,” Najib snapped out at reporters.

For the benefit of some readers, the reporter was asking if the statements made by some political leaders earlier have contributed to the church arsons. Najib was very defensive and quick to jump into conclusion that the question implied UMNO and intimidated the reporter by asking for his identity.

There is a sense of guilt in Najib as he defended UMNO. We all know the truth. He and his cousin Hishamuddin wanted massive protests, but the response were lukewarm. I do not deny that there are many muslim out there who are not happy with the Allah issue, but they are peace loving and reasonable people who rather find solution through dialog and mutual consultation. Thanks to PAS who has consistently showed maturity in handling this issue and statements made were very reasonable.

UMNO had it this time. One big nail to their coffin. Umno still in denial mode and think they can fool and treat rakyat like small kids.The justifications they cook up for the few recent fiasco further confirm that their time is UP.....

Muslim, Christians, Buddhist,Hindus.....are praying day and night.

So UMNO, remember the Almighty is watching. " Kamu akan terima balasan yang setimpal".

smilies/wink.gif

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written by Aria, January 09, 2010 08:06:13

UMNO would rather see Malaysia in the hands of terrorism than with Pakatan. We all know how much UMNO cares about Malaysia. The rakyat should calm down and not let UMNO destroy Malaysia. This whole incident is about a usage of a word!! Don't make a big deal about it.

If the Christians use the word 'Allah' to describe god, then Malays can use the word 'Jesus' to describe god and I am sure the Christians would not mind that.

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written by SpeakOut, January 09, 2010 06:58:43

Khairy J, I hope your UMNO youth and mat rempits are not involved. If they are NOt then you deserve to take over Husamuddin's place.

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written by datuk tanah, January 09, 2010 06:25:12

Najib,

You are totally responsible for this shameful act. You are the person who sanctioned and support the outrage by your UMNO members. Are you happy and satisfied now that you have got what you wished for? Your mouth ask for peace but your heart wants war. News of the church burning have gone out to the world media and governments. You have a lot of explaining to do.

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written by educationist, January 09, 2010 05:22:27

Yes, he has shown how unscrupulous and ruthless he can be in the takeover of Perak.
So, if the fanning of the fires of religous extremism can help him tighten his hold on power, i believe he will do so.
So, we see the umnOputras adding fuel to the A-word ruling.
Let's hope that, since his evil motives and intentions have been uncloaked, he shall hold back his legions of devils ,demons and scumbags of society.

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written by NSTPravda, January 09, 2010 05:09:30

..will Na$ib Ro$ak push Malaysia into terrorism?! Stupid question. The reign of terror has begun and as he admittedly said, there i$ nothing he or we can do about it. $emua-nya OK!
smilies/tongue.gif

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written by rocky, January 09, 2010 03:40:05

Screw you Pm and your 1malaysia and UMNO too. you fellows have put us on the world map and your Ketuanan Melayu..stupid fools. This is worse than 1969...the whole world knows about this within an hour and all the good work done by past leaders and rakyat...gone down the drain. UMNO is desperate like a drowning man...will do anything even screw this country. well done PM,, we now know what you mean by pencapaian diutamakan...well done

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written by losyot, January 09, 2010 02:46:47

“Don’t point the fingers at Umno or anyone else. We have always been very responsible. Don’t say this attack is motivated by Umno,” Najib snapped out at reporters.

What are you trying to say now? Are you saying DON'T CALL NAJIB, NAJIB CALL HIM ANOTHER ......... (i have many i can't even mention here)

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written by Singa, January 09, 2010 01:16:59

How could a PM say he is powerless when the buck stops with him. Powerless pariah PM step down and hand the baton to your deputy and lets test him out. Corrupted fools !!!

tiew na ma ham ka chan !

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written by Kalam Kabut, January 08, 2010 23:57:35

typo error - uncapable = incapable.

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written by Kalam Kabut, January 08, 2010 23:55:59

Najib and Hishamuddin must step down now! These guys are NOT fit to administer the country. Pak Lah was anytime better.

Malaysians must put pressure to get these 2 uncapable UMNO mininters to step down! No need to wait for next GE. Do it now.

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written by imanj, January 08, 2010 23:48:18

Malaysian Politics and disturbing issues will always see the victims as villians..
So nothing anyone says will stop the contradicting manner this government has,as it is headed by the usual ' not me ' / ' I don't know / 'I don't care / don't question rights attitude..

Never mind if little muslim and non-muslim children grow up in such a system. These people will all sleep well,while the ones who are not the villians are keep awake at night worrying for their future and the future of their children,families and friends.

I'm sorry I can't be apart of this kind of race based religion,I know on Judgement Day,if I now cross the line and join the demonstrators that hurt races and their religions,I will be question by 'GOD'....

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written by avancc, January 08, 2010 23:37:29

Opps... I guess that song will soon be banned by a powerless man...

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written by avancc, January 08, 2010 23:32:42

~~~God is watching you~~~~
~~~Tuya's watching too~~~
~~~They are watching you~~~
~~~From a Distance~~~

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written by Motherchell, January 08, 2010 23:23:55

For sure he will !!!to cover up all his and the fatso's heinous crimes. He knows that the Poor folks out in the far flung areas and in Govt Institutions can't read or write works of wisdom.

Najib and his gang actually spat at the sky!!! You know what ! they just made the mistake of giving in to the devil by approving the march .

The whole of Europe , CNN reported the issues of the day. Then the FDI's and the FII's will hit rock . The Royalty too will have to suck eggs as all the BiG Corporations are BUMIPUTRA held. Where in the name of hell will they expect any more confidence with bastards as Kris and Najis.

A drowning man will hold a blade of grass--------------this is what Najis did today. He thought Altantuya will leave him for good with the killing . She will not rest till his head is removed. Fat Mama may cry for a day and the time for her to see the winds of change in Malaysia will take place . The very guys who whore around with the houehold will take their heads..

Evil will never perpetuate as it is now ! Musa and Patail will have to be ready for a long journey soon!! God has his ways .

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written by avancc, January 08, 2010 23:22:16

After 50 over years... If you study the records... You'll have one conclusion...

UMNO IS DESTROYER...

They have destroyed BN...
They destroyed Democracy...
They destroyed Malaysia...
They destroyed the Malays...
Now they destroyed ISLAM...

What else can they destroy???
Do they need to wait until the U.S and NATO to send us a bomb like in Iraq or Afganistan and wipe us all out... And be completely destroyed from the surface of the earth to realize it is too late?

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written by Raja Chulan, January 08, 2010 23:21:18

Many thought Malaysia is heading in the direction of Zimbabwe but I think it is headed in the direction of Pakistan. Najib has declared that he is not in control. Perhaps the extremist can now call this country MALAISTAN