Community Action Network (CAN) Malaysia views with grave concern the recent conduct of Sepang Umno chief Noorazli Said, who misquoted sacred biblical scripture Psalms 129 while making inappropriate remarks during the recent Umno general assembly.
Faith is sacred – not a political punchline: Religion should never be weaponised, trivialised or used as a tool for political posturing.
In a multi-religious society like Malaysia, leaders across the political spectrum must treat all sacred texts and religious communities with absolute respect.
Exploiting faith and sacred traditions on political platforms damages the delicate fabric of social harmony.
The rule is simple: all religions must be respected equally and just like the commandments we subscribe to, we must treat thy neighbours as how we want to be treated.
Ignorance is no excuse for political leaders: CAN is deeply appalled that a senior political leader could recklessly misquote the Bible to deliver a crude and sexual analogy that is completely devoid of the original text.
Leadership demands accountability, precision and basic literacy regarding the diverse beliefs of the electorate.
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If a leader lacks knowledge on a matter – especially one involving sacred texts, the standard must be simple: if you do not know, do not say it. Misinformation masked as political rhetoric sets a dangerous precedent.
Apologies do not preempt the law – due process must take place: While CAN acknowledges that Noorazli has issued a public apology, an apology alone does not erase legal responsibility or mitigate the impact of inflammatory speech.
A healthy democracy relies on the consistent application of the rule of law. Apologising cannot serve as a free pass to bypass statutory oversight.
Authorities must handle this matter with complete impartiality. Due process must take its course, and a thorough investigation by the relevant enforcement bodies must be conducted to determine whether legal standards were breached.
Equal enforcement of the law is necessary to signal that religious provocation will carry consequences, regardless of political affiliation.
A reconciliation mechanism is much needed in Malaysia, particularly in the context of the religious rhetoric and controversies that have taken place over the years.
Too often, there is no clear or meaningful process through which harm, hurt and grievances arising from statements or actions concerning religion can be acknowledged and addressed.
A nation that moves forward is one that is courageous enough to acknowledge when words or actions have caused hurt, disrespect or offence to another person’s religion, beliefs or place of worship.
Reconciliation is not about assigning blame or suppressing difficult conversations. It is about creating a constructive space for acknowledgement, dialogue, accountability and, where appropriate, an apology.
In the light of this, CAN calls on all political leaders to elevate the standard of public discourse and refrain from dragging religious texts and figures into political theatrics and to advocate for a meaningful reconciliation mechanism that will provide a space, allowing grievances to be heard and addressed before they deepen existing divisions.
At the same time, CAN applauds and commends the political leaders, civil society organisations and concerned people across party and religious lines who promptly called out this unacceptable behaviour.
Their swift condemnation demonstrates that ordinary people are united in refusing to normalise religious disrespect, setting a necessary standard for interfaith courtesy and national unity.
In this regard, it is also opportune for us to wish everyone a Happy Malaysia Day! May this day be remembered for the commonality we share as true-spirited people who care about a greater Malaysia. – CAN, 17 September
The views expressed in Aliran's media statements and the NGO statements we have endorsed reflect Aliran's official stand. Views and opinions expressed in other pieces published here do not necessarily reflect Aliran's official position.
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