Politicians, Follow TMJ's Lead in Combating Extremism

The firm stance by the Johor Crown Prince Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim has prohibited all the state’s suraus and mosques from being used to spread political dakyah (propaganda) and discourse should be praised in these religiously tenuous times.
In a long tradition of moderation and promoting harmony, TMJ’s recent blunt action reflects the emphasis that all Muslims should place on being tolerant, moderate and inclusive when living in a multicultural society.

The post GE-15 environment has revealed fractures in our social fabric, with irresponsible actors and, more likely political propagandists spreading questionable materials that promote an Islam-first stance – at the expense of other cultures.

What’s worse is that our elected leaders choose to pick and choose their battles, in fear of alienating their voter bases or to appeal in more conservative communities despite the mandate from Malaysians from all walks of life.

We should remember the contents of a statement by the Rulers in 2017 following the Muar laundromat incident:

"As a religion that encourages its followers to be respectful, moderate and inclusive, the reputation of Islam, must not ever be tainted by the divisive actions of certain groups or individuals, which may lead to rifts among the rakyat."

More leaders from the political sphere should follow the lead of TMJ and urge Malaysians to continue following the core principles of the Federal Constitution and Rukun Negara, which stipulates that the diverse religious and ethnic backgrounds in Malaysia must be respected.

Not just to use this as lip service, but to embody the spirit of this statement and Rukun Negara, as the present state of affairs in the country is unhealthy and even dangerous to not just non-Muslims but even Muslims.

We want to see more visible leadership and policies against hateful extremism from political parties and all others in public life. Public bodies need to recognise victims of extremism and provide support to them.

We want to see civil society groups challenge extremists and their hateful ideologies. We want to see faith leaders call out the extremists from the communities they belong to. We want to see our agencies proactively rise to the challenge rather than being reactive.

Going beyond take-down and developing more innovative ways to encourage positive behaviour online. Yet often, countering extremism and defending our society results not in thanks and support but abuse, harassment and intimidation. Government must do more to support those performing this vital role.

Take the example from TMJ, how to fight those who would rather see chaos than harmony.

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