Current Issues Commentary

The recent incidents of church attacks were well handled by various leaders. We have been giving suggestions on how to resolve Israel-Palestine conflicts, which could be easy on paper but extremely tough on real-life. Now we have a real life test case at hand, how do we resolve differences and conflicts, the Malaysian way?

The Christians will have to live up to Jesus's teaching:

But I tell you, Do not resist an evil person. If someone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also. (Matt 5:39)

Forgiveness, though is very abstract, but is a powerful way of disolving the current tension. I'm glad the church leaders responded well.

(the Star) PETALING JAYA: Leaders of the Metro Tabernacle Church said they do not harbour any ill-feeling against the culprits who set fire to their church and are thankful that the Government has strongly condemn the arson attack.

The statement of forgiveness is made as Christian groups, lawyers of all faiths and politicians from Sarawak loudly protest against any acts done to throw the country into chaos.

http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2010/1/9/nation/5441174&sec=nation

This kind of news will normally create knee-jerk market reaction but since everybody is coming all out to condemn, I'm do not think this is going be a powerful catalyst to sell down in a big way. I remain hopeful that Malaysians can walk the talk as a peace loving nation.

(The Malaysian Insider)Shortly after the attacks, it appeared uncertain how Malaysia would pivot at such a turning point. But yesterday saw many political leaders coming out to condemn the violence.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak, Umno Youth Chief Khairy Jamaluddin and social activist Marina Mahathir, the daughter of former premier Tun Mahathir Mohamad, all visited the Metro Tabernacle Church, the worst hit of the targets.

Marina also started a petition with her friends urging Muslims to unite against violence towards non-Muslims.

Political analyst Ooi Kee Beng from the Institute of Southeast Asian Studies said it was a positive sign that moderate Muslims were coming forward to help.

“I’m glad that so many Muslims are coming out, and I hope the number will escalate to show that the hooligans are not even a minority, they are just a few people,” he told The Sunday Times.

In a surprise twist, the same group of Muslims who had rallied on Friday against the court decision offered yesterday to protect Christians and their churches against further violence.

The 15-group coalition, believed to be taking the cue from top leaders, issued a statement to put on record their opposition to the arson attacks and their intention to foster better communal relations.

Another group, the Malaysian Muslim Consumers Association, offered to work with the authorities to protect churches.

http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/index.php/malaysia/49069-church-attacks-prompt-conciliatory-moves