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PETALING JAYA: Opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim says there is no excuse for religious fanaticism, as such an ideology will disrupt unity.
This comes after PAS MP Pasir Puteh Nik Muhammad Zawawi Salleh commented on the Christian holy book.
Anwar described Zawawi’s comments as reckless, insensitive and reflecting a low understanding of Islamic ethics when discussing with followers of other religions.
“In this context, it refers to the Christian religion,” he said in a statement.
He said that if Zawawi’s intention was for people to understand Islam better, he should use wisdom and make sure there is mutual respect.
Anwar said that if Zawawi’s comment had caused any misunderstandings, the best way to solve the problem would be to acknowledge the mistake.
He said that the right attitude is important to safeguard the principles of justice, equality and compassion for all.
“There should be no exception to the law and justice must be respected,” said the president of PKR.
Zawawi had made the comment in the Dewan Rakyat last week in response to Beruas MP Ngeh Koo Ham, who had said that Christians were allowed to drink alcohol and that the Bible only advocated against drunkenness.
Zawawi insisted that alcohol was prohibited but that the Bible had been distorted or altered.
The exchange came during a debate on proposed amendments to the Highway Transportation Act to provide stiffer penalties for offenders for driving under the influence of alcohol.
