The current situation in the country where three churches have been reported to have been burnt should be handled very carefully. Since the use of the word Allah has gone to the court of appeal all quarters should remain calm and should not turn it into a crisis. We should not prejudge and jump into unhealthy conclusions.

Remaining calm and following the right direction is the hallmark of good leadership. The top leaders in the country have called for discipline, restraint and calm in handling this sensitive issue.   All matters can be resolved with proper handling of the issue and it does not need to be further incited with negative emotions and actions.

The media too has a responsible role to play in this matter.

Religion is a sensitive issue and places of worship are sacred to all people. To live in harmony and peace, mutual respect and understanding is the only way to go. Our history of living together with one another has been an example for many countries in the world to emulate. We must not disregard the positive aspects we have learnt from our experiences. How can we be proud as Malaysians if we resort to attacks on our fellow citizens or taunt their belief systems?

The acts of vandalism against places of worship, and in the most recent case, against churches, is the work of irresponsible elements who are out to undermine the government’s efforts on national unity.  It certainly cannot be the work of responsible people and such acts should be condemned by every responsible citizen.