The Rocket Destination is not to the Moon

(Mingguan Malaysia, 1 November)
Dr. Mohd Ridhuan Tee Abdullah, Senior Lecturer, National Defence University Malaysia

Being Muslims we must believe and obey whatever came from Allah, because we are his invented creatures. However, at the same time we also need to know the real politics of our country and our society. Can Islamic country be established implementing the Islamic law when the country's population is neither solid nor near to one hundred percent Muslims? How do we force the non-Muslims which are almost 50 percent to accept the Islamic law? Perhaps we would argue that the law of Islam is for the Muslims only and the non-Muslims according to the teachings of their religions. The question is, has the party or those ultra kiasu ever agreed with these ideas? I do not have to repeat what were their answers.


I am very much surprised on why we were so anxious to follow the rocket to the moon? Eventually, we knew that the rocket destination is not to the moon. I am worried on those with the rocket already equip themselves with parachutes when they knew that the rocket will not be allowed to reach the moon. If that's the case, why we are willing to take the rocket with them? Why we can't just switch the rocket with another aircraft which already has its destination but approaching it differently?


Are we not able to sit together discussing the destination? Even we are not traveling together, the least we should do is to initiate the first move by sitting and facing each other to discuss on the best methods to arrive at the destination. Do not continue having negative presumptions. Why able to have good presumptions with the enemy who is already clearly known with its bad intentions?


We need to figure out together on how to implement the Islamic values in our country rather than addressing the difficult question on implementing the law because our country majority-minority is not large. Perhaps Brunei, Pakistan and other Arab countries have no difficulty to implement the Islamic law. However, in Malaysia our geographical population is different.


It is better to first strengthen the Islamic values because I believe the Islamic values are also shared by all religions. I have not seen any single good values of Islam rejected by other religions. What is forbidden by Islam also forbids other religions such as adultery, gambling, drinking, and etc. Whoever rejects the values of religion today is among those who are too enthusiastic with the western way of life glorifying the human rights. Today it appears that the human rights extremism have destroyed the west. The west began to realize the importance of religious life (Ziglar, 2000).


Whereas the west have begun approaching religion, do we want to inculcate the devastation they have experienced into our lives. Actually there are many similarities in the values shared by all religions that we have not implemented. This is what I have learned as a Buddhist and a Christian before. We need to find the similarities and resolve to implement them, rather than wasting time discussing something that is far away from the real politics and very difficult to implement. In the end, money is wasted, because of discussing things that cannot be implemented for not understanding the real politics and being divided for no apparent reasons. Who actually are at lost?


I'm not rejecting an Islamic country or the Islamic law, but as a political researcher, I studied the Malaysian real politics. I am sad and very concerned to see the Muslims divided. We have lost Singapore and do we want to see a second Singapore after this? Are we unable to anticipate the thoughts of these ultra kiasu? They viciously attacked us with courage. Do we want to continue surrendering?


Just look at the fate of the Member of Parliament for Bandar Baru Kulim, Zulkifli Nordin. I sympathized so much with him. His intentions are good; do not want the condoms and liquor to be sold openly in the convenience stores. But his views were heavily attacked by the ultra kiasu group, particularly by the non-Muslim women who do not use condoms. Actually, the men should be the one to object because condoms are used by them, but unfortunately those who do not use condoms are more vocal instead, insisting that condoms to be sold in the public and to be used during sexual intercourse as 'safe sex'. What was more pathetic was that some Muslims also object. Do we actually have 'safe sex' by just using condoms? We should instead question the reasons for using the condoms in the first instance. Are those using condoms already married?


I am confident that most of them who use condoms are practicing sex freely. For married couples, they rarely use them for Allah has provided the best that required no further modifications. However, for those who do not believe in God, having sex freely is their choice, henceforth condoms are strewn everywhere. Those who violated God's commands should not be defended compared to those who want to follow God's commands. I am sure for married couples, if they ever use condoms, they understand the meaning of embarrassment, thus the condoms will be purchased 'secretly' and will be kept in its respective places.


Anyway for those who are not easily embarrass, they would openly and proudly purchase condoms and alcohol in public. Are those using condoms actually felt that sex is safer, while their actions are questionable? If only married couples using condoms for safer sex, I would feel much relieved. Instead, the overall condom's customers consist of those who only want safe sex, although this method may not be actually safe.


If condoms and alcohol are conceived as freedom and human rights, I would suggest that those who oppose them of being sold in private to place the condoms and alcohol at the front door in order to facilitate their children to have safe sex. Just purchase a dozen and put them at the front door or near the dining table. Why should condoms be kept in the house after they had been purchased? If they are suitable for sale openly, then it is also good to place them in strategic places in the house for the children usage. Say to them that 'if you want safe sex, use condoms'. I am sure that those who like condoms will not agree to put the condoms openly. The question is if condoms are not suitable to be placed in the house openly, then why should they to be sold openly in the stores?


It is common sense that the implementation of this matter does not need to be discussed. Perhaps it is well practiced in the west, but not in Malaysia for the community in the east is well known of its ethics and politeness. I'm neither against condoms nor the usage of alcohol, but please have some tactfulness when addressing something that is contrary to the human norms and ethics, although it is never an offence to be used by those who are husband and wife.


I am confident that those who like condoms and alcohol are among the types of people who do not fear God. Husband and wife rarely use condoms because it is not that exciting in a sexual relationship that is 'halal'. Do we after this will support the idea of having condom vending machines and alcohol vending machines outside the building just like the water vending machines on the basis of human rights? Today, why we are not discussing the exploitations brought by the usage of condom and alcohol? Have we actually study on how many innocent people died due to the abuse usage of alcohol that will lead to the failure in car drivers which caused road accidents?


Therefore, I would support if condoms and liquor are sold in private. This is the eastern ethics set forth in the pillars of our country's constitution. Let us be ashamed to do anything that is damaging including having sex freely . Just by quoting only condoms, we should feel ashamed, even though it may be necessary.


Actually, condoms and liquor will destroy the Muslims. When the Muslims are weak and corrupt, then the ultra kiasu group will dominate the minds of the Muslims. Thus, they are against any attempts to hide the condoms and alcohol from the public, for the damage will not be them but the Muslims. I am so worried that we will not be able to rise again after falling. By then, we will be empowered by them.


For those going to the moon, are you sure the rocket will actually lead us there?

The Intentionally Breakoff in Islam

(Mingguan Malaysia, 25 October)
Dr. Mohd Ridhuan Tee Abdullah, Senior Lecturer, National Defence University Malaysia

I was accused for collaborating with UMNO and was paid millions to write articles. Oh! What an easy way to be rich. Just by writing articles to condemn the opposition with racial overtones, UMNO shall pay. Maybe after this, the readers can join me to become rich. It is an easy method, criticize the oppositions and praise UMNO, hence we shall be paid millions. That's how rich is UMNO! This is an ultra kiasu mindset. They are untouchables. Everyone is wrong except them.


I was being challenged for not questioning UMNO for being corrupted. For everyone information, please read my article in Utusan Malaysia (December 22, 2008). I have written that to accept corruption is so much disgusting than eating pork or either way, it is much better to eat pork rather than accepting corruption. That is how disgusting it is to accept corruption. Why the oppositions did not support me then? This is the third class mentality of our society that we are happy if it happens on others, however, when it happens on ourselves, it is like spitting into the sky. Are we that 'clean'? Remember, we are just an ordinary people, and are not perfect. I do not deny that the existence of the opposition alliance in the democratic system is important as check and balance to the system.


There is only one thing I am requesting, that whichever is good, please accept and support. However, as for the bad, it should be debated wisely. Do not just reject everything because differences in opinions. What is more humiliating is resorting to personal attacks. Are we actually better off? Remember, sometimes we also have some secrets to ourselves. We also make mistakes, but we dare not reveal them, for fear of facing the truth.


Honestly speaking, if PAS has the intention to establish an Islamic state and to carry out its laws, the ultra kiasu party and its alliances are not appropriate alliances for them. The reason is that the ultra kiasu party and its alliances, do not agree with Islam. The ultra kiasu party is very strongly against Islam. Are we still not aware of that? Meanwhile, the allies as at today have never issued any statement supporting the idea of PAS to establish an Islamic state. How about PAS instead try to ask the highest leadership in the alliance? The answer would be they do not want Islam. Clearly in their personal agenda is to avenge. It is because due to the anger of one mosquito, the whole mosquito net is burn. Who are the losers? Actually the Muslims are the losers. Have the non-Muslims lose anything? No, not really. They will eventually gain either in the BN or Pakatan Rakyat, even they face the internal crisis within the party itself.


Therefore, it is not an empty rhetoric when I proposed that PAS cooperate with UMNO to create a unity government. PAS and UMNO are the dominant parties for the Muslims in this country. The directions of the Malay Muslims depend on this two Malay Islamic parties and not the ultra kiasu party and its' newly ally which are very newly formed. They have hidden agenda. I am asking all of you to read all the materials which are plentiful in the internet. Do not forget to read also the Freemason struggle. You will obtain a clearer understanding.


The benefit of PAS taking UMNO as a friend will eventually produce better Islamic results compared with the ultra kiasu party which has clearly rejected Islam, including its ally. The state of Selangor for instance on Islam, even though it is lead by a Muslim leader; has the light on Islam been reflected? Please ponder. Don't create a conflict on yourself as it will make you more miserable. The sayings, love your enemy as yourself for you would know their hearts better as yours rather than the enemy in camouflage and the fox in sheep's clothing, which are folded scissors or thorns in the flesh.


I'm not a member of UMNO and I do not even get one sen from UMNO. But I can see that the Muslims political are at a disadvantage. If having UMNO as a friend, and yet unable to uphold Islam, does having the enemies of UMNO as friends will instead uphold Islam? No, I do not think so. Therefore, make a justification which one is better. That's it. End of the story.


Our politics are more to avenge. This is an obvious political weakness of the Malays. We are willing to break heads and break everything just because of different opinions as portrayed in the recent Bagan Pinang's by-election. The others also quarrel, but they quarrel like brothers and sisters. Today they are seen to be quarrelling, but tomorrow they become friends again. There was no news on heads injury. Why is this not happening to us? Why should charcoal easily broken with a stroke? This problem has been haunting the Muslims today until we are being taken advantaged. The Muslims become a drifter in its own land. Are we confident to stand up after this?


Compared with China, they have only one China. There is no issue of Taiwan excluding itself from China. In the government of China, Taiwan is Chinese. The Chinese remains as Chinese. Taiwan cannot be in cahoots with the American to destroy China. Why? The answer is because the Chinese government, know who is the real enemy and the enemy in camouflage. Any attempts to destroy China will be uncompromised.


Thus, the Chinese government is very strict with Taiwan. Any attempt to 'Americanized' Taiwan will be completely opposed. China is taking the approach of one Chinese and the dignity of its race is more important than everything. By adhering to the principle of this ONE, China eventually became great. The staunch enemy, America also became fearful of it, too, let alone an enemy who is trying to become the enemy in camouflage. Their civilization is inherited from their ancestors who cannot be bought nor compromised. If Taiwan is being spoilt, then the concept of ONE China unity will destroy. I hope the readers understood this little comparison with our country and which is related with my last week article. That is how great of the in heritage of the ancestral teachings and civilizations of that race.


Islam does not consider the ancestors as important, because we have Allah as the most compassionate. In fact, by having Allah with us, we should be greater than those who believe in ancestors. Allah created the ancestors. Why is it that today when people who worshiped Allah are considered more despicable than those who worship the ancestors? Don't blame Allah, because we are not united in the name of Allah, even Allah has warned; that to hold fast to the rope of Allah and not to be divided.


People who were confident with Allah were proven to be great. Look at the civilizations that were brought along by Prophet Muhammad. There is no shortage of anything. The question is why are the Prophet SAW believers so naive? Is it so difficult for us to unite on the basis of Islam? Is the union of Islam has to be delayed until the existence of an Islamic country or the implementation of Islamic law?


Are we unable to read the Islamic real politics of our country? Can we establish an Islamic country implementing the Islamic law when the country's population is not solid nor one hundred percent Muslim. How do we force the almost 50 percent non-Muslims to accept the Islamic law? Are we not aware that the non-Muslims will never ever agree with Islam?


If that is the situation, can PAS actually establish an Islamic country if their friends have clearly rejected Islam? I don't think so. If that's the case, why are we presently not grateful to the current existing Islamic leadership and try instead to strengthen the Islamic values despite the fact that the actual Islamic law cannot be implemented?


Today, I think we need to sit together to figure out how to implement the Islamic values into our country rather than to speak on hudud laws which are difficult to implement because our country majority-minority are not large. Perhaps Brunei, Pakistan and other Arab countries have no difficulty to implement the Islamic laws. But in Malaysia our geographical population is different.


It is better to implement the Islamic values because I believe the Islamic values are also being shared by all religions. There isn't any good value in Islam being rejected by other religions. What is forbidden by Islam is also forbid by other religions such as adultery, gambling, drinking, gossiping and etc. All other good values need not be mentioned, because I do believe everyone would agree, except for those who are too enthusiastic with the western way of life.


If there is any religion that says that what is prohibited in Islam is allowed, and the good values are rejected, then I would dare to say that their religion should be despised. But I believe there is none. What I have learned as a Buddhist and a Christian before, actually there are many similarities. We need to find that similarities and resolve so as to implement them, rather than wasting time discussing something that are far away from the real politics and so difficult to implement. In the end, so much time is exhausted, money wasted, because of discussing things that cannot be implemented for not understanding the real politics and being divided for no apparent reasons. Who are actually at a loss?


I am not rejecting an Islamic country and Islamic law, but as a political researcher, I read the Malaysian real politics. I am saddened and very concerned to see the Muslims divided among themselves. Fragmentation is always at a loss. We have lost Singapore, and do we want to see a second Singapore and after that a third Singapore?

The Benefit of being United in Silence

(Mingguan Malaysia, 18 October)
Dr. Mohd Ridhuan Tee Abdullah, Senior Lecturer, National Defence University Malaysia

The recent crisis that occurred in the MCA political party should not alarmed us at all. This is a common happening in politics. The important question is what had we learned from this crisis? I'm not that concerned with the MCA nor Gerakan, because both of these parties are not strong among the Chinese itself compared with another Chinese party that is ultra kiasu. Therefore, I do not actually have much concerned on the fate that had befallen on both of these BN component parties.


I would be more overwhelmed if the ultra kiasu party is in crisis instead. But until today this party seldom has any crisis. Instead, this party continues maturing and has had many useful experiences. More importantly they are able to read with precise on the Malays' psychology. Thus, this party is increasingly getting attention and trust, posing dangerously to the Malaysian politics. Moreover, this party has rarely lost in the Chinese majority in any PRUs and by-elections. Without any doubts, they will also win in a Malay majority area one day. It is not impossible; if the Malays continue their act to burn the mosquito net because of one mosquito compared to the practice to strip-shred the chicken feathers which will eventually merge.


If we analyzed the elections, most of the seats won by the MCA and Gerakan were contested in the Malay majority areas. If MCA and Gerakan were to compete in the Chinese majority areas against this ultra kiasu party, I believe, both parties will face with a severe loss. For instance this is happening in Kuala Lumpur, Penang and the majority urban areas. These are the written and unwritten results of the voting trends that I hope the readers are able to figure out.


Perhaps, some may be asking how Gerakan has been able to sustain itself in Penang? The answer is to study the Gerakan's history and the causes that led to May 13, 1969 incident, i.e. prior joining the Barisan Nasional. Gerakan was chosen because during that time, Gerakan was outspoken and very vocal to voice the fate of their race. But when Gerakan began to compromise with the government, which ultimately led to it being rejected, hence the ultra kiasu party won in the 12th PRU. In other words, the more ultra kiasu a political party, the more they will get the support and attention. This simply means that the ultra kiasu party will be supported by those who are also ultra kiasu. I do not accuse all the Chinese as ultra kiasu. The fact is that this ultra kiasu will still continue to win big majority in the area they are representing.


I am confident that perhaps after this, the ultra kiasu party will be putting one or two Malay candidates in the Chinese majority area, just to prove that they are a multi-racial party. I am also confident that the candidates will have a big win. However, it is neither surprising nor shocking. This is because they have comprehended the kiasu politics. If the Malay candidates won, the Malay candidates will not even be able to do anything because the party is still dominated by those who are ultra kiasu. The existence of the Malays in the party is just a 'shadow puppet play' (wayang kulit) games that were shown to obscure our eyes.


Do not be fooled with their tricks. The emergence of the Malays and the Indians appointed in their party leadership are only to obscure the eyes of the public just to prove that they are a party for all races. Thus, when there was one fairly influential Malay joined them; he was appointed as a vice chairman of the party. Perhaps, after this he will be the deputy chairman. I am still waiting whether the Malay will be appointed as chairman of the ultra kiasu party in the future? We shall wait and see! Irregardless, this is their cunning strategy that we may have overlooked. Hence, do not worry so much on the internal affairs of MCA and Gerakan. What is important is that we need to expose this ultra kiasu party so that the Malays and the other Chinese who love this nation will not be deceived by them.


If the readers do not believe what I have written, try to propose the issue of rotating the Chief Minister of Penang among the various people in their alliance or the Barisan Nasional? I believe that not only will this ultra kiasu party jumped, even those not related to the ultra kiasu party will also unite themselves with the ultra kiasu party to go against this proposal. Essentially, the Penang Chief Minister post must not be given to other races. In my opinion, anyone who ruled Penang among the three parties is not important. What is more important is that the Malays cannot become the Chief Minister over there. Any attempts and efforts will be heavily opposed.


Therefore, I am not surprised with any crisis that is happening in any of the political parties of my race. True, they are seen to be divided. They shout until they became hoarse. But actually, they are united in silence. The ultra kiasu party will forcefully demand, criticize and condemn. But all these are not from a hollow impact. Who are actually working silently? Two parties from this component will silently deliver to the BN that this demand and request should be met. Otherwise the voting will be affected whereby the Chinese people will be angry and switch directions. That was the actual message in the 12th PRU. This is what I wrote being united silently even it looks divided from the external.


That is how MCA and Gerakan benefited for being in the coalition with the government. The Malays will give their undivided support to them because that is the Malays attitude in this Malay land. They are loyal to the leaders' command. They are willing to push aside the candidate of their own race and religion because they are taught to obey the leaders. This has been happening since the feudal era that it is a taboo to disobey. This connotation has its pros and cons and it is up to us to evaluate them.


The Chinese political parties are very lucky because externally there are those who are very vocal in criticizing, demanding and claiming, but at the same time internally there are those who will be doing the persuasions. This does not matter in which state they are in, whether in the alliance or in the government.


Unlike the Malay political parties where externally they are so forcefully criticizing, however internally there is no one to persuade. This is because the Malay political party (UMNO) is the only one in the government. UMNO is alone in the government facing the unending demands from the others. I do really understand why UMNO has to concede defeat sometimes, because UMNO is in a catch-22 situation, having difficulties to provide an amicable solution. UMNO's friends of the same races and religions are not with them. The friends that are of the same race and of the same religion are in the oppositions. They are only good at condemning and criticizing but unable to persuade. Finally who are the losers? These are the fate of the Malays on the Malay land.


I am not sure that after this, BN will be able to seize back Penang and most probably may lose it, because this ultra kiasu party has successfully organize an established strategy to 'melt' the Malays with the governance style of Umar Abdul Aziz and using slogan 'amar makruf nahi mungkar' (to invite people to do good, and to prevent people from doing bad). If the Malays were to 'melt', then it is not difficult to obtain victory because a solid vote will be obtained.


It is so unfortunate that today Malay Muslims parties, not even silently uniting, they break up like the charcoal easily broke with just a stroke. The road to reconciliation is far from achieved. They are like being divorced under 'talak 3' (talak means divorce). Their divorce is irrevocable meaning no more negotiation. Thus, each partner willing to find a new partner even not compatible. If the need to reconcile again, then has to marry by way of 'Blind Chinese' (Cina Buta - meaning the ex-wife (divorced wife) has to remarry another man and the marriage has to end in a divorce so that she can marry the former partner again). What a loss for the Malays, they divorced and split up, and Chinese (Cina Buta) gets the name and its share.


So what should we do now? Meet all their claims and demands in order to get back their trust and votes? It is difficult to provide an answer, but it is not impossible. The Muslims must unite to be strong. When we are strong, it would be hard for others to step over our heads. Today the problem is we are weak, and therefore 'kaduk naik junjung' (meaning a plant that normally grows on the ground that suddenly creeps up on the tree for support decided to stay on growing on high places instead).


The Bagan Pinang by-election is not a measure for us to say that the BN has won the hearts of the Chinese and the Indians. There are many other factors that we need to study. Do not be too complacent for we might lose eventually. What is important now is to find a solution to establish a unity government. How to integrate both UMNO and PAS, for the strength of the Malays depends on these two political parties.


Put a side PKR for the time being. In fact this party is not strong if PAS is not with them. Although it is spearheaded by the Malays, however, the Malays will still be at a loss because the ultra kiasu group is with them. Look at what happened in Selangor. Have Islam and PAS ever benefited from that alliance? I am confident should PAS switch direction, the alliance will fell and they will eventually lose in all the places they contest.


I still can predict that the Malays in PKR will return to UMNO in the future as we have seen many cross over had occurred. Today they are avenging themselves because the ultra kiasu are with them. The question is whether Islam and Malay will be protected even if the Malays rule? The answer is the Malays will still lose in Selangor. In other words, wherever the Malays rule, they will eventually lose because they divorce 'talak tiga' and they cannot even unite in silence.


I seldom came across any bad incidents in clashes between the candidates of the Chinese party with the ultra kiasu party in the by-elections or general elections; compared with the clashes that occurred among the Malay political parties. We often heard there were head injuries, bottles/stones throwing and many more. In fact, we are divided externally and internally, and willing to break our brotherhood relationship. We are still far from uniting in silence. This is the fate of the Malays in the Malay land.

Recognising the Enemy in Camouflage

(Mingguan Malaysia, 11 October)
Dr. Mohd Ridhuan Tee Abdullah, Senior Lecturer, National Defence University Malaysia

It is fine with me that all my descendants and ancestors and me were condemned. I have an inbuilt resistance already. However, sometimes my siblings and relatives who were not involved with my writings were affected instead. They were 'attacked' by this ultra kiasu group with all kinds of accusations. My grandparents and parents were blamed for not educating me well to be Chinese, uncaring the descendants, more Malay than the Malays, traitor to the race and all sorts of accusations that were beyond unacceptable.


I have no difficulties with this ultra kiasu group for I understand perfectly their characters as we are from the same kind. I stand on the principle to be brave enough to tell the truth and to fear of telling lies. Even to face my own family members. I don't care because they do not understand. Let alone to understand Islam as a way of life. Never assume that life is simple. The struggle to defend the truth is very challenging. Anyway, it is reassuring enough that Allah SWT is always with the truth seeker. Therefore, always put Allah priority above everything else.


After embracing Islam, I studied and was taught that in the event of a clash between the interests of Islam with other interests including the interests of the race, ancestors and so forth, then the interests of Muslims must be given the priority. A never will always be a never. Similarly a clash between the interests of the ummah and self interest, then preferences will be the ummah. This is because the ummah interest has great implications on Islam as a whole. These rights belong to Allah SWT, the eternal one. Other interest is only temporary for the world is only a temporary place for us to live.


Therefore, I cannot agree with my own race that stated property can be replaced but language, ethnicity, identity and ancestral heritage must be preserved. There is no compulsion and must be defended at all cost whenever they are being threatened. Is that correct? What I do understand is that self-interest, ethnicity, political parties and ancestors should be ignored when encountered with the interests of Allah SWT. Similarly, human rights should be ignored when encountered with the interests of Allah SWT.


In other words, whatever interests when faced with Allah's interest, then we should forget the rest as they are not permanent being temporary in nature. This does not mean we should ignore everything around us. What is the use of being noble in this world, in the eyes of others, but instead was despised by Allah SWT. We should understand this matter as well as the ultra kiasu group.


The best is being noble both in this world and with Allah. If there are no other choices, then let it be less noble in this world but be noble with Allah. This is my faith as a humble person that had accepted Islam. I am not sure how others will perceive.


In my writings, I only want the Muslims to realize that others have long been advancing themselves and became powerful and therefore it's hard for us to pursue. Do we want to continue to be left behind? See how others are taking care of their interests. They have reached the clouds, while we are busy quarrelling among ourselves. We are always divided in politics and the least we should be united in other things. Instead, we continue to split in other things as well.


The latest issue was on the caning punishment of Kartika Dewi Shukarno. I am impressed and respected her family and herself for accepting the punishment who requested that the caning punishments to be implemented. The question whether the sentence is appropriate or not is another issue. Essentially, the highest legal institution has decided. Honor that decision. Why are the Muslims among themselves that are not being punished nor involve in the punishment became so involved in this case? Have we not realized that people are shouting with joy because they do not have to speak as we have indirectly been representing them?


Kiasu


Those ultra kiasu do not have to interfere nor question the sharia's court decisions because we ourselves have enemies in camouflage. We among ourselves cannot even agree on a basic issue relating to religion and our own affairs which has been our flesh and blood. Imagine how are we coping with other issues?


I have never heard of non-Muslims going against the decision of Buddhist monks, Hindu or their priests on their religious actions even though they are sometimes quite extreme. For example, issue on covering 'aurat'. For those who do not want to cover their 'aurat', it is better to be silent. There is no need to criticize those who wants to cover their 'aurat' or those turning a new leaf (depending on their intention). Don't tease them nor criticize them.


I have never heard of my own race criticizing the clothing of Buddhist monks, Hindu or Christian priests which are well covered as Islam. There are monks who are willing to have their head bald (whether male or female), walking around without slippers and others in accordance with the teachings of their religion to deliver their religious duties. I noticed that they are being honored in the public or when they go from house to house. They are being welcome and charity or alms are given to them. Their arrival is considered to bring sustenance and good luck to the host. In other words, the non-Muslim honor their religious leaders, even they look to be extreme.


Why are we not 'acting' like them? Be united to defend the teachings of the ancestors. Be silently united even though from the external it looks as if it is divided. Today, let's ignore about silently united as we are divided internally and externally. We intentionally hang our dirty linings in the open. We adhere to the human rights more than the rights of Allah. Unfortunately, we opposed the good and silent the bad. Those sentenced drinking alcohol are opposed, those who drink alcohol are not opposed. Those not covering their 'aurat' revealing what not to be seen and should be hidden (being sexy), were not ask to cover up, but for those who really cover up were instead teased, "why are you covering up!" What is so derogatory when words like this being hurled up, "no use covering up if your heart is not sincere, closed behavior is worst then not covering up, therefore better don't cover up".


Remember, we are just ordinary people. It is not necessarily for those who try to practice their religion, their morals are better than those who do not, although that is what should happen. We need to distinguish between the human rights with the rights of Allah. There are those following the teachings of religion, but when they are being tested, eventually strayed away. There are also people who do not have the least desire to follow the religious teachings or the teachings of Allah, but yet they only see the good, reflecting as if those not practicing are better.


Therefore, my question is whether those who do not practice are better than those who actually practice? What if an imam or monk or priest was involved in a rape case, can we conclude that it is useless to have faith in the teachings of God? Why should we blame the teachings of God in this matter rather than ourselves who has corrupted the human faith? This is the ultra kiasu attitude that can corrupt the human faith. Thus, emphasizing human rights over the rights of the Creator. Besides, debate on the issue to strengthen a wet thread. Portraying as if the people do not need religion for it restrict the human rights.


If that's the case, there is no need to build so many places of worship until building at places which are not suitable. If the presence of God is not necessary, there is no need to have faith. It is better to follow our passions based on human rights. Do whatever you like even though it is prohibited by God's teachings such as drinking, gambling, casino, fooling around, adultery and so forth. Perhaps those who are against the punishment on Kartika will agree with these prohibitions? Is the existence of religion itself is viewed as a threat to restrict the freedom of human rights?

Priortising GOD to Ancestors

(Mingguan Malaysia, 4 October)
Dr. Mohd Ridhuan Tee Abdullah, Senior Lecturer, National Defence University Malaysia

I feel sympathized with the leader who is the head of an Islamic party and also a state executive councilor (exco) in Selangor. What was so unfortunate was that the exco had to deal with its own people in the party, who had asked him to resign. If the ultra kiasu party wants to follow the rule of Umar Abdul Aziz style, then the exco action should be acknowledged. The exco is entitled to criticize and issued a statement questioning the procedure of the Select Committee on Competence, Accountability and Transparency (Selcat) which handled the case involving the public administrators.


This show that the ultra kiasu party is not opened to views and criticism which is contrary to the governance style of Caliph Umar. Previously they were known to be so vocal in criticizing. They find faults with others. Now, when it is their turn to be criticized, they considered themselves to be correct and others as wrong. It is very clear that this party is very ultra kiasu and do not want to lose nor admit their own faults, but instead can still shout with joy for there are Malays who are still with them and supported them.


For the readers' information, Umar Abdul Aziz was known to welcome any differences of opinions. The Caliph was very open to anyone who criticized his leadership. In this issue, the exco only emphasised that the government officials who were investigated not to be humiliated in public.


Actually this is the leadership style of Caliph Umar. Degrading the pride of individuals in the public are not allowed in Islam. For example, during the reign of Umar bin Abdul Aziz, there was an incident occurred where an individual was accused of spreading news that might lead to defamation. That individual was brought to face the Caliph.


In verifying the news, the Caliph cited the al-Quran verses which means, "O ye who believe! If a wicked person comes to you with any news, ascertain the truth, lest ye harm people unwittingly and afterwards become full of repentance for what ye have done." (Al-Hujurat: 6).


This verse was addressed to the unbelievers with the view that they were hypocrites and those in the same category. On hearing the words from Caliph Umar, the man asked for forgiveness from the Caliph and decided not to continue his intention to spread the news.


The Caliph reasoning was very noble, so that it will neither bring harm to the community nor create any misunderstanding. Imagine if the action by those foxes in the sheep clothing using the Caliph Umar leadership style going out to avenge on those who they are not happy to be with?


It appears in this issue; Caliph Umar had made every possible consideration even if the news were true, or if the news or allegations were false or untrue itself. Does this ultra kiasu group have this characteristic? Just imagine if in this era where information and news materials can be traded for the sake of pursuing materialism, wealth and promotions, regardless of whether the information are correct or wrong. Most important, revenge is sweet.


Today, we are very sad, because for the sake of pursuing wealth and promotions, the Muslims forget to maintain the relationship of Islamic brotherhood and human relations. Rasulullah SAW has mentioned the strong bond among the believers. The mutual care and love can be illustrated that when one limb is in pain, then the whole body will feel that pain. Does this feelings still existing among the Muslims? If not, imagine the consequences if we put our trust in this foxes in the sheep clothing?


We must remember that the conflicts and battles among the Muslims will only weaken us. Although there are many people who call themselves by the name of Islam and will be angered when they were told to be weak and less Islamic in their faith, but at the same time they are mocking the teachings of Islam and disregard the teachings that they are championing. Not only will they blaspheme themselves which led to sin, but instead they are doing a disservice to Islam and humiliate the Muslims as a whole. They prefer to see the Muslims destroyed because of the attitude to avenge themselves, thus trusting other people more instead of their own people.


Islam allows us to give our views and criticism if the matter touches and towards doing good and honorable or amar makruf nahi mungkar (to invite people to do good and to prevent people from doing bad). This is also the slogan proclaimed by the state ultra kiasu party. I have doubts whether they understood this slogan? Or is it being used to 'melt' us? What we are seeing today is that they are releasing their resentment and avenging themselves by promoting themselves and putting others down. To me, those who want to emulate the Caliph must practice to be fair, and not wicked or hypocrite. They seem to be easily corrupted to make allegations against the people which could bring disaster to the people and country.


The Muslims should be aware that we need to be an example to all mankind. What's more if you want to follow the style of the Caliph Umar. We should be ashamed and embarrassed to ourselves to Allah SWT if we called ourselves Muslims, but did not practice the Islamic teachings. Remember the words of Umar bin Al-Khattab, that we are the people honored by Allah with Islam. If we seek nobleness by means other than the noble way, Allah will damn us. Allah SWT reminded us, "Ye are the best of peoples, evolved for mankind, enjoining what is right, forbidding what is wrong, and believing in Allah." (Al Imran: 110)


The exemplary pattern rule of Umar Abdul Aziz should be a role model to this ultra kiasu. In fact they never believe in Islam, let alone with those who fight for Islam. I am confident that it will not be easy for the exco to carry out his daily activities as he will always be under the watchful eyes of this ultra kiasu. I also believed that the exco movement is monitored daily because this group is afraid with those who champion for Islam because they themselves are anti-Islamic. The logic is simple; if they do not believe in Islam, how can they believe in the Malays. This is the fate that befalls on the Malays in the land of the Malays in Singapore. Are we still blind to see the fate of the Malay Muslims people over there? What is the difference between the ruling party that rules Singapore with this foxes in sheep clothing?


In the latest issue, a young leader from the alliance associated with this ultra kiasu party, proposed that the Chief Minister's post in the ultra kiasu state to be rotated. Actually, this is not a new issue, because it has long been proposed by the Malay party before this. Spontaneously, a few hours after the issue was raised, the youth wing and chairman of this ultra kiasu party jump on the issue just like a worm in hot weather wriggling around in panic. So kiasu.


What does this wing from the foxes in the sheep clothing said? They blamed their own allies as power crazy. To them, it is not the time yet for the position of the Chief Minister to be rotated. The question is until when? Until resurrection? Can we still remember, before this, a Muslim Malay party cropped up this same issue a couple of times with the reason that they have the majority of seats? Does their request or views being attended by their party affiliation? The answer was no. This is Dutch nature obtaining lands as Jews. What can we learn? Meaning, they do not have two or three, but they only have ONE. ONE is the reason for them to be strong. Because of this ONE that will unite them to defend the rights of the pride of the ancestors. Similarly for the Muslims, Islam is only ONE; we remain one to protect the only ONE, although ONE consists of various races because ONE is not racist but universal. I hope we all understand what I meant.


When I said this, I believed I will be accused again for unable to actually understand this group of people even though I am of the same race with them. I will also be charged guilty to my ancestors. My question, what is the use of preserving the fate of the ancestors if the dignity of religion is being mocked or pawned? Who is more important, the ancestors or Allah? To them probably their ancestors, but to me Allah SWT is everything. Since the ancestors were created by Allah SWT, then I must prostrate to Allah SWT instead of my ancestors. The ancestors will not have me to prostrate, but only to be remembered. Descendants to me are no longer important after meeting the God that has opened my heart to accept Islam. Allahhuakbar!


To those who feel that their descendants are more important than God, then take good care of the descendants. Honor them. Do not commit adultery. Stay away from forbidden relationships. Validate the relationship as husband and wife. Do what is advised, stay away from the forbidden. Abide by the concept of inviting people to do good and preventing people from doing bad. Then the descendant's ancestors' honor will be safeguarded and rest in peace in the grave. Otherwise, the ancestors will revolt because we have actually been treacherous to them. Do not cleverly talk about descendants and ancestors, if we ourselves are treacherous and hypocrites.

Danger of Fox in Sheep's Clothing

(Mingguan Malaysia, 27 September)
Dr. Mohd Ridhuan Tee Abdullah, Senior Lecturer, National Defence University Malaysia

The Malay proverb stated that whoever eats chili will feels its spiciness. As expected, there are some who felt the spiciness. Those who are uncivilized continue attacking me personally. The facts provided by me were not debated. Instead I was accused of being a hypocrite.


My writings were considered as venoms damaging the glory of Aidil Fitri celebrations. For those who accused me, were they not hypocrites, too? Foxes in sheep's clothing are the real hypocrites! If I'm accused of hypocrisy, at least I am being truthful.


The Chinese proverb stated that if you dare to eat salted fish, and then be prepared to be thirsty. As an academician and a writer, I am responsible for my writings. Only cowards attack my personality. The Malays, who partnered with this ultra kiasu party, I hereby urged them to withdraw before it is too late. Foxes in sheep's clothing are very cunning. They will take advantage of us to achieve their goals.


Take note that this group is wise enough to read the psychology and sentiments of the Malays. Currently, they are busy campaigning for membership from the Malays. Their objective is, to win the Malays hearts besides achieving their hidden agenda. This ultra kiasu group claimed that their party is for all races, whereas we are aware that it is dominated by one race. The non-Malays are merely a gimmick only. It would be most unfortunate if those who are called 'Ustaz' to join them one day.


The emergences of several Malay lately in their party were highlighted excessively, to prove that they are not a chauvinist party as claimed by others.


Apparently, they acted very well. Assisting religious schools and having their presence in the breaking of fast ceremony and provided Moreh assistance during the month of Ramadan recently were deliberately announced so that the Malays will 'melt' with their acting.


Basically, these are the normal routine duties of an elected representative of the people. It is not unusual. It is an obvious duty of an elected representative to look after the welfare of the people. What use of the term 'elected representative' if it is not to serve the people. People choose them. Therefore, it is appropriate that they take care of the welfare of the people. Only that they are quite cunning. They are clever to obscure the Rakyat eyes. They appeared to help when people were afflicted. Only offered their help when someone in pain. Are they really sincere?


Their help has caused the Malays to feel obligated. The Malays were unconsciously affected by their actions. This opportunity is used by the kiasu party to their advantages.

Disunity

The political disunity among the Malay Muslims today has created the opportunity for this ultra kiasu group. They will try to get the maximum political 'mileage' and will attack the personality of anyone who is considered a threat to them.


This time, the ultra kiasu attacked my personality touching on my career and my salary. The salary I received which is considered as part of the tax paid by the Rakyat was considered as a waste to be paid to me.


For your information, my salary is not that much compared to an elected representative who also receives from the same source. Their monthly income is many times more than what I receive. Are their works and acting at par with their remunerations? Do a self reflection. If they truly emulate the works of Umar Abdul Aziz, I would agree. But is it really happening? Don't simply accuse others without making a self reflection first.


Are the duties of an elected representative only to help and attend the fast breaking, providing Moreh assistance and officiating seminars and projects? Obviously the duties of an elected representative are more than that or more than the norms. Rather than acting without any purpose.


My basic duties as an academician have never been interrupted besides providing ideas to awaken the Muslims. Why this elected representative has became so angry? Has the newspaper published an article not in favor to them? I think they will not attack me if I am truly Malay. It is just because I am of the same race, and I am not in the same wavelength, therefore my character is being assassinated.


However, if my article was destined to be published in their newspaper, and to criticize the government instead, then I would be their idol. This is how ultra kiasu thinks.


I hereby call the kiasu elected representative that if you want to rule according to Umar Abdul Aziz, make a study of its noble attributes. Umar, as a leader who is very 'low profile' or humble and with an open mind, accepted the Rakyat criticism. For Umar, the Rakyat is first, because it is entrusted by Allah SWT. Among the principles of Umar Abdul Aziz was "People First, Performance Now". The question is why is this kiasu group criticizing these noble attributes?


Umar helped the poor without expecting any recognition or publicity. Umar took the approach of giving through the right hand and hiding the left hand. A part of Umar's assets were used for the people's benefits. His honesty and transparency were an exemplary. Unlike exhibits of cosmetic pictures to portray a leader with all races as shown by this kiasu elected representative.


Announcing good work to every corners of the region just to win over the hearts of the Malays is not Umar Abdul Aziz style. The Muslims must remember, the elected representative has accused the Muslims as extremists and also encourage the sale of liquor and other matters that are prohibited in Islam. Has he apologized when asked to do so? The answer, is never because they are absolutely not agreeable with Islam, instead will try their best to disconnect this identity from the Malays.


Searching for cheap publicity is moronic culture or the mindset of the third class. This group is very cunning to use every opportunity when the people are weak. Actually they do not make any progress. But they cleverly mimic the chicken, lay only an egg and make the whole village excited with it. Unfortunately, there are some among the Malays easily believed and testified that this ultra kiasu party could save them.

Plot

Without forgetting, those who plot with them also denounced me, saying that my writings have made the non-Muslims to distance themselves from Islam. Have the non-Muslims been closer to Islam prior to my writings been published in the newspaper? Let us reflect whether Islam is closer or being distanced away after the events of September 11? I know for a fact is that the stronger the west is against Islam, the stronger is Islam being well received. Therefore, what is the real meaning of dakwah? I think the partners of this ultra kiasu party can provide the answer.


Dakwah should be viewed in a broad perspective, and not to assassinate the character of an individual that is seen as a threat. My scopes of studies include strategic studies, politics and governments. I write based on my field and my career as an academician.


Preaching is meant to speak the truth even if it is bitter. Not just only giving speeches. If preaching is merely giving speeches, I do not think Umar Abdul Aziz will accept a job as an administrator or a statesman. Why Umar Abdul Aziz accepted the political office as a statesman? He used it as a political tool for dakwah. The power used was for the benefit of the people and not for personal interest.


It is so unfortunate for this ultra kiasu group. They want to follow Umar Abdul Aziz, but they only took a piece of method from Umar Abdul Aziz government just to obscure the eyes of the public.


I was advised not to interfere in their affairs, because this is not my business. Have they not been interfering in our affairs all these while? I had to intervene because I am a Muslim. Muslims have to correct what is wrong, acting on the basis of against the wrong and uphold the right in honor to save the Muslims as a whole.


If I'm not entitled to interfere with their affairs, then they are also not entitled to interfere with the affairs of Muslims. Try counting how many matters pertaining to Islam that have been interfered by this ultra kiasu group. How many hearts of the Muslims that have been hurt by their actions? Have they apologized? Examples of issues relating to apostasy, converts, grabbing of dead converts, issue of Islamic country, sharia court issues and many other issues that I do not need to highlight further. Are these not the ultra kiasu intervention?

Malays 'melt' easily when praised

(Mingguan Malaysia, 20 September)
Dr. Mohd Ridhuan Tee Abdullah, Senior Lecturer, National Defence University Malaysia

Sometimes I am puzzled why the Malays can easily 'melt' when listening to non-Muslims speak on Islam or praising Islam or quoting just a few verses of the Quran. Take for instances, the speeches made by a few non-Muslim opposition leaders who cited several holy verses of the Quran and on the manner of the approach of good governance taken by the state government of Umar Abdul Aziz.


True enough, on one angle it goes to show the non-Muslims interest towards Islam. But we must remind ourselves; do they really have faith or believe in the Quran or just acting merely to deceive the Malay Muslims? I am quite confident that this group is able to read and understand the psychology of the Malays. Perhaps the Malays can provide the answer whether they have actually understood their psychology?


The Malays easily 'melt'. Usually they are easily amazed and fascinated when others praised their race and religion. Hence, they will defend until death on their race and religion without hesitation. They will salute those who said, 'look, even the non-Muslims want Islam, whereas the Muslims themselves reject Islam'.


Furthermore, they will start preaching these words everywhere, even rejecting those with the same faith that are willing to stretch their hands to be their friends. The friendships extended by those with the same faith were not only rejected without reservation but with negative assumptions and prejudices. They are willing to cooperate with the non-Muslims instead from the Muslims themselves.


We never learn nor even want to learn from history, when faced with this group of wolf in sheep skin. Experience is the mother of all knowledge. They have never agreed with Islam; what else with the Islamic agenda to establish an Islamic state and Islamic laws. It is crystal clear why they have rejected all this while. Have we not heard the words, "over my dead body on the establishment of an Islamic state", "Malaysia is a secular state", "Malaysia is not owned by the Malays", "Malay is also immigrants" and various statements that are hurtful.


Will the Malays not realize their agenda? Are we not afraid on the threat of this group on our religion? Have we forgotten that this party has good relations with the party that ruled the country of Singapore which is also a fragmented party from it? What would happen if they decided to collaborate in order to weaken us?


Have we not learned from the actions taken by Singapore which were questionable? Was it not enough with the loss of Pulau Batu Putih and the constant airspace intrusion? That's not included the water retention pond in Johor which was completely controlled by the Singapore army even we ourselves are not permissible to enter. Not also excluding, the lands that have been mortgaged to them. In other words, Singapore never wants to share with us. They are ultra kiasu. Anything that will jeopardize their interest, will be completely opposed such as the issues on the water agreement, the Causeway demolishment and the replacement with a crooked bridge.


Back to the issue on the party fragmented from the main that ruled Singapore today; do they really intend or will implement the rule of Umar Abdul Aziz, when they actually rule? Is the ruling of Umar Abdul Aziz merely to combat corruption? What about the religious life style values held up by Umar Abdul Aziz? Has this group exhibits the values of that religion?


I was attacked and denounced by this group, just because I defended the prohibition of adultery and alcohol. For them these are human rights. I am confident that one day they will also justify that homosexual be accepted as what being tried in Singapore. For them the human rights must be defended compared to the rights of the Almighty God. Is this the kind of Umar Abdul Aziz ruling?


Do not be deceived by this group. If they really want to establish the rule of Umar Abdul Aziz, the party would have appointed its ally, which is known to fight for Islam as one of the state exco in one of the state ruled by them. This is because its ally was already known with the 'clean' image seemed to be like 'Umar Abdul Aziz'! But where are the positions of its partners in the state? To me, they had never liked the Islamic policies that its ally brought with them. They are very prejudice against their ally. Meaning, they are also prejudice against Islam. This is very clear. I do not need to teach their ally because it's already clear cut. Issues related on their rude attitude pertaining to alcohol and their charges against the Jamaah Islah Malaysia as a religious extremist have clearly shown their true colors. There are many other examples of their arrogance on Islam.

Eroded

Umar Abdul Aziz strengthened the Islamic identity in its rule. What Islamic identity has been preserved in the state ruled by this kiasu group? What I have known is that the Malay Muslims identity is eroding continuously in their ruling state. Names of signs, eatery places (food courts) or the building's name are no longer there to noble the Malay language as the national language?

I did not say that the previous state government was better. But if we truly want to follow Umar Abdul Aziz, obviously we need to show that we are better than before. Because of Umar Abdul Aziz high integrity, Umar did not put aside the identity of the Arabs as the original inhabitants. The al-Quran language was strengthened everywhere. What about Malaysia as a country that derived from the Malay Land? Is the position of the Malay language as the national language protected?


We need to be reminded that Umar Abdul Aziz was not concerned about wealth and grandeur but instead chose to live in simplicity. Despite of the undivided support from the people, he encouraged the people to choose a new Caliph if they were not satisfied with his ruling. Umar also divided the Umayyad colony to the people and very rarely receive any presents for fear of being bribed. He also urged his related families to donate their jewelleries to the public treasury.

Umar rejected the government's attitude of appointing its own officers to monitor the people. Instead, Umar appointed the public to monitor him and his behavior. If the public found him making an error, Umar Abdul Aziz will ask to be guided or to restrict him from making such error.


I hope the Muslims would not feel cheated with the highlights on the reign of Umar Abdul Aziz by this kiasu group. After over 52 years, have we not recognized their sincerity and what are in their hearts? Can we cooperate with these people, when they were encouraged to wear the songkok on the parliament's opening before the sultan, these group rejected ultimately? Let alone to wear the baju Melayu?


Have we realized that all this while, this group is strongly against Islam or on Islamic states? Look at the history of their resistance against Islamic laws and against the declaration as a Islamic country by the former Prime Minister, Dr Mahathir Mohamed. The declaration as a Islamic country at that time was only on the country's name itself, and not on the actual implementation of the law. If truely the Islamic law was to be implemented, how would they have actually conducted themselves? The question is whether the pattern of governance of Umar Abdul Aziz not based on Islam? These questions can only be answered by this kiasu group.


The partners in the alliance argued that those were the views of old generation or older generations. The new generation does not have such thinking. After making an in depth research on this kiasu party, I do not see any difference between the new and old generations. It is the same. If what is being championed is a Malaysian Malaysia as what championed by the People's Action Party (PAP), then I will never believe them at all.


Therefore, let's not gamble the future for the sake of achieving today's national interests. Whatever has clashes between the interests of the future with the present, hence the future must be prioritized. Similarly, the importance of the country's future with the interests of party or ethnic group, the country's future must be prioritized. Similarly, if the religion interests clashes with the race interests, then religion must be put first.

Allow

Never allow ourselves to be played down nor to be taken advantaged of. Do not be a slave in your own land. But stand up to defend your rights without denying the rights of others. Otherwise, we will regret. I am worried when the time comes, it will be too late. Rice has turned into porridge. Before it happens, let us stand together and reflect on our future and Islam.


Do not only use the name of Umar Abdul Aziz, just to win the hearts of the Malay that 'melt' easily. Today, the Malays are not stupid. They are savvy with these dirty tactics. Go back to the human virtue. Indeed, this day of victory promised us that the right remains right and the wrong remains wrong. In conjunction with this Hari Raya Aidil Fitri, let's appreciate the return of human virtue that is clean from sin and stain by studying the purity of Islam itself before trusting others 'more'. I fear we will be fooled by this illusion game. In the end, it will be our own loss. Selamat Hari Raya Aidil Fitri, Maaf Zahir Batin.

Strengthening the national agenda than the agenda of race

(Mingguan Malaysia, 13 September)
Dr. Mohd Ridhuan Tee Abdullah, Senior Lecturer, National Defence University Malaysia

As I have always stated, Allah SWT has accorded each country with its own race. The country’s name represented by its race. In short, the nation name comes from the name of the race. For instance, the Malay race-Malaya, Siamese-Siam, Chinese-China, Indian-nations of India and etc. There is no country that is formed naturally multi-racial or multiracial society. Society turns plural resulted from the migration that occurs in many countries including the Malay Peninsula (Malaysia).


A certain group has tried to dispute this fact. They said that the Malays are not the indigenous or original inhabitants of this country. The Malays according to them were like others migrated from other places to this Malay land. The question is how the word Malay archipelagos and Malay Peninsula evolved if in the first place was not inhabited by the Malays? It is true that the natives were the origins. Were there any countries that existed without its natives? Prove that.


As we all know, the Malay patriotism system begins with the word "Malay" or "Malaya" which itself stands for the territories and islands in this region. This names were well-known among the states of China, India and the West such as Melayu (I-Tsing), Malaiur (Marco Polo), Malaiyur (Tanjore-Sanskrit inscriptions in India), Ma-Li-Yu-R (Yuan Shih / China), Mailiur (Siam) and Malayo (Albuquerque / Portuguese) (Suntharalingam and Abd Rahman Ismail, 1985).


In short, the term Malay Peninsula, Malay and Malaysia and Malaya were clearly referred as the Malay states. This fact was certified by the researchers who made the eastern and western study of the Malay environment. Malaya and the Malay archipelagos belonged to a race called Malay. The arrival of the colonials had actually changed the political map of the Malay archipelagos. Once colonized, then the episodes of society pluralism started in the countries of the Malay archipelagos. Allah SWT has clearly made a certain race in places associated with its race. Allah SWT has also granted each nation with its own identity such as language, culture and way of life.


The arrival of the colonials has actually changed the political map of the Malay archipelagos. Previously, the relationship between China/India/Arab with the Malay environment involved bilateral trade only, without large-scale migration. However, after the invasion, begins the episode of society pluralism in countries of the Malay archipelagos. It is clear that Allah SWT created a nation associated with its race. Allah SWT also granted each nation with its own identity such as language, culture and lifestyle. Therefore it is normal when the identity or the majority race, controls or dominates the minority race, because it happens everywhere.


This argument is to convince us that the elevation of the nation and identity is not wrong. Otherwise, why Allah SWT created a nation with varying characters and colors in their respective areas. Of course there are wisdoms. When they migrated, they can be mixed and mutually recognized one another as Allah says in surah Al-Hujurat verse 13.


In my opinion, based on this verse, the love of a race is normal if it is not overwhelming. Ibn Khaldun submitted the concept of assabiyah (social bindings or solidarity) which is positive. This binding plays a major role in uniting the various races and nations which further develop the strength to build civilization. In his writings Al-Mukadimah, the love of a race or assabiyah is allowed. Defending the rights of a race in their own homeland is a commonplace, as happens in other countries that also originated from a race initially.


The society having strong assabiyah ties would certainly be able to build strength and self-esteem than those who are weak. Assabiyah does not means chauvinism nor ethnocentrism nor racism such as ignorance before the coming of Islam. Assabiyah was then, more towards tyranny otherwise in making its people to be cruel. What Ibn Khaldun meant by assabiyah were the bindings of brotherhood, the spirit of esprit de corps and mutual help in doing good deeds. Hence, in this case, when quoting the Malays, it certainly can not run away from Islam.


We must remember, the Malays are lucky because Islam has been professed by them since 600 years ago. Prior to that, thousands of years the Malays professed the Hindu-Buddhist religion. Allah SWT honored the Malay with Islam. Today Islam has raised the prestige of Malay. Without Islam, who are the Malays in this Malay soil?


Therefore, the Malays must learn from the lessons on Islamization. It started with a king converting to Islam in Melaka, hence almost all the Malays follow suit. Islam continued to grow and expand. However, the Melaka government did not last. When it broke, the colonial entered. In the end, the Malay land was invaded and colonized.


Then, the Malays rose again. The Malay Islamic spirit of nationalism has brought them together. Henceforth, the Malays became strong again. The colonists were driven out successfully despite many casualties. The combination of the Malay Muslims injected the spirit in generating power. That is why I always stated that the Malay and Islam are like the flesh and blood with a history based; unfortunately there are many who do not understand my meaning. They accused me of being more Malay, as if I do not love the Chinese or I have forgotten being a Chinese myself.


As a Chinese, it is appropriate for me to love my own race. This is allowed in Islam. As a Chinese he will be a Chinese, no matter how long for Allah SWT has created me to be a Chinese. I can never change myself to be Malay. To belittle one own race meaning is to belittle Allah SWT creations. However, when I gave some different views or criticized the Chinese, it does not mean that I do not love the Chinese. Do understand that Islam teaches me the meaning to speak the truth, although I have difficulty in accepting that. Unfortunately, there are many who can not see that in a broad perspective. I was denounced because I did not support my own race instead. Do I need to hide the bad for the sake of race?


I was not only denounced by my own race who were not Muslim, but also from among the Chinese Muslim itself. My action was considered to have caused the Chinese to drift further from Islam. They accused me of being an opportunist. I was considered to be more Malay. My question, what is wrong and sinful if I touch on the issues of the Malay Muslims, if it is the truth? Are we not sinful in defending the wrongs?


A Chinese Muslim calling himself ummataunwasoto in my blog commented that it is not wrong for a Chinese to enforce its mother tongue, for himself and within his own community, because to maintain the cultural values and the identity of its ancestors and descendants. When did I say it is wrong? Read carefully my articles that were published in the Mingguan Malaysia. It is very unfortunate for a Chinese Muslim not able to understand the easy Malay language. Which need to be prioritized; the country agenda or the race agenda? The Malay language as the national language is the national agenda, the main objective. Meanwhile, the mother tongue agenda is for the race agenda. When there is a clash, it is obvious that the national agenda should be given the priority without prejudice to the race agenda.


Brother ummataunwasoto also failed to understand the pressing issues of the Chinese government on the Uigur Chinese ethnic in Xinjiang . The real issue is neither the identity issues nor the Uigur ethnic language issues, for they are still Chinese. However, there are other issues that brother ummataunwasoto still unable to obtain the answers, especially relating to the Islam religion professed by the Uigur. Those professed the religion of Islam are accused of being Muslim terrorists. This is the fate of Muslims today resulting from the propaganda of certain parties. I hope brother ummataunwasoto is not in this group receiving this propaganda. Make a study.


Anywhere in this world when the Muslims are a minority in non-Muslim countries, they will be oppressed; persecuted and even worse were killed. If compared with the non-Muslims living in Islamic majority countries, they are not only rich with great life-style, but their wealth has overcome the indigenous itself. This is what I am always repeating on the Malays fate in the Malay soil.


Furthermore, when I proposed the idea of uniform the education system in this country, it does not mean that we want to eliminate other communities' education. My previous writings were very clear, but many still pretend not to understand. I have repeatedly stated that young children must be placed under one roof without denying their rights to the mother tongue education. They cannot be separated as what is happening from before until now. This will make national integration a difficult process. I am confident those that crowing had never studied nor researched this matter. They also do not mix with the society or living in their cocoon only. Join the NGOs and PTAs. You certainly will get the answers. Even not participating in any societies, we can see the mastery of the Malay language and the level of integrations among them.


Many studies had shown that the levels of integrations among the multi-racial society in this country are in a fragile stage. Are we not ashamed when we have leaders or corporate leaders when interviewed on television portrayed their level of mastering of the Malay language were very low compared with those speaking in English or in their mother tongue language? Where is the actual position of the national language as the main country agenda compared to the race agenda? Please reflect on this.

Issues arise because of ignorance of religion

(Mingguan Malaysia, 6 September)
Dr. Mohd Ridhuan Tee Abdullah, Senior Lecturer, National Defence University Malaysia

Columnist website Center for Policy Initiatives (CPI), Helen Ang criticized the articles I wrote in Mingguan Malaysia.

Her article entitled Ridhuan Tee's Reverse Take on Racism, was also published on several opposition websites and provided opportunities to the readers of the websites to attack, denounced and smeared me again, without intellectual discourse on her article.

Actually, I do not want to attend to those who wrote without making a detailed study and research as I do. It appeared she did not understand what I wrote. It may be her level of mastery of the Malay language which is relatively low after a long stay in the country. A small part of my article citations were manipulated just like those done by the Chinese newspapers.

Quotations that I took from the words of the late Tunku Abdul Rahman about the need for the city of Shah Alam to be free from alcohol and nightclubs have been mistaken. Helen Ang wrote that it was my own writings. I really pity the way she tried to understand my article in the easy Malay language. Fortunately I did not use bombastic languages; otherwise I do not know how Helen Ang will comprehend.

She also accused me of 'being Malay' and not 'being Islam' to be accepted by the Malays, and thus make me more successful. How can I 'being Malay' while I am a Chinese. I converted to Islam, not 'being Malay'. As I said before, I converted to Islam because of the dignity and sanctity of Islam. I never expect any help after embracing Islam, because Islam taught me the principles of self-reliance. A person race can never be changed even he has embraced Islam because God has earlier created the person into that race. Instead in religion, we have a choice as what I have chosen.

In debating the fact that I have written, Helen Ang compared between the Thailand Chinese and Malaysia Chinese. Helen Ang regarded that the Thais accepted the Prime Minister of Thailand, Abhisit Vejjajiva as Chinese. Similarly, with the previous Prime Ministers Chuan Leekpai and Thaksin Shinawatra. Helen was questioning why the Chinese cannot be the Perak Menteri Besar (DAP). The answer is simple, because the Chinese in Thailand are not the same as in China. They can be said to be more Siamese than Siam. The question whether is it happening in Malaysia?

In fact many things that were written showed that she could not understand the history of Malaya and the history of the formation of Malaysia. So unfortunately she could not understand how the spirit of the Federal Constitution enacted from the agreement of all races, through the pure alliances or better known as social contract. Similarly, the Constitution of every state has its own history. I hope that this ignorance does not happen to other people and not blind to history.

Helen Ang also needs to review the 7 Malay rulers’ wills as mentioned by the Raja Muda of Perak, Raja Dr. Nazrin Shah, which had formed the Federal Constitution of Malaya 1957. Helen Ang needs to understand the meaning of the explicit and implicit of the Federal Constitution. Do not just defend by reading the Chinese newspapers.

Why was she disputing the Perak Menteri Besar which was not elected from among the DAP? Can Helen Ang figure out why the Chief Minister of Penang must be handed over to the Chinese? UMNO have more seats than other political parties in 2004 elections and before that.

Why can't we appreciate the compromises and sacrifices shown by the Malays? Anything that is benefiting, there will be silenced, however if it is not then it will be full of noises to attract sympathies.

Helen Ang also disputed the fact that I wrote on the number of non-Muslim places of worship such as the Hindu temples, Chinese temples and Christian churches over the number of mosques and suraus. I am providing the statistics for her knowledge on the Malays fate on the Malays soil.

For instance, Selangor has a total population of 4.8 million. From these total population, 2.5 million representing the Malays with a capacity of 259 mosques and 939 suraus. Chinese Buddhism has a total of 1.3 million with 1,015 temples, the Indian has a total of 647,000 with 810 registered temples (this number does not include unregistered temples). Meanwhile, as for the number of Christian churches, let Helen Ang figure out the numbers to accommodate the 50,000 Christians.

Statistics

According to these statistics, is clear to us, after totaling all the non-Muslim houses of worship, the mosque and surau are actually lacking. This ratio comparison is only on one state, imagine with other states. Is there a fair ratio between the populations with the number of houses of worship? Obviously there is a significant difference. Please refer to Wikipedia, although it is not an authentic academic source. However, I believe these statistics are of not much different.

Let us not talk without doing research. Helen Ang may be surprised if I provide statistics for the whole country. This is due to the compromise of the Malays. Respect this compromise. Don't be too kiasu.

In my opinion, all these happened because of the ignorance of religious beliefs. What issues can arise when we want to maintain relationships that are prohibited by all religions, practices such as adultery until giving birth out of wedlock? Tell me which religion allows this illicit relationship?

Imagine if the women involve in illicit affairs are mothers, wives, sisters until giving birth children out of wedlock. Can we accept all these as moral hazards that must be defended? If it happens on other people, never mind. When it happens on own self then the heights of heaven shall be known.

Therefore, I sympathized and respected the actions by MCA president Datuk Seri Ong Tee Keat and MCA disciplinary body which has taken appropriate action to drop its deputy due to moral misconduct.

I am very confident that the decision taken is not easy for him. The decisions are taken in order to save the dignity of the party even though will affect his popularity.

The action taken is considered accurate by MCA in terms of legal and moral teachings of religion. I fully support the Chinese people for these actions. These are the moral values that every leader should have and leading the rakyat. If leaders are not providing good examples, who else? Do we need to wait for the rakyat to provide good examples? Is it not leadership by example?

As I have always stated, neither religions nor the teachings of the world can justify the immoral behavior such as adultery or sex before marriage. Let alone on pregnancy out of wedlock children. These illicit acts are great sins.

No matter what the race and religion in our society, we need to be educated with high moral values. Religions should be the guide of our life. Only then the world will be peaceful. All religions appeal to the best. The best remains being the best while the bad always remains bad. We must not allow what is wrong to be our goal.

Buddha strictly forbid adultery as mentioned in the five prohibitions; do not kill, do not commit adultery, do not lie, do not steal and do not drink alcohol. Please refer Sutta Nipata 815, Dhammapada 309-10, Sutta Nipata 123. Similarly, these are prohibited in Christianity, Hinduism and Sikhism.

What is the purpose of these religious advices? Overall they are to ensure that the people to have high morals, dignity and so forth. If Helen Ang is a Christian, please read the Bible, 1 Corinthians 6:18-20 & 1 Corinthians 7:1-2. Does Christianity allow adultery? It is a definite no.

If Helen Ang observed the past customary of the traditional Chinese society, the punishments to those who commit adultery were very strict. Adulterers will be inserted into the container or swine basket and thrown into the rivers.

Similarly, I would like to suggest that Helen Ang spend time examining the teachings of other religions such as Hinduism and Sikhism about adultery. Read the Hindu scriptures, Bhagavad Gita 1.40-42, adultery is forbidden in Hinduism. Behavior considered adultery insulted the Hindu law (Laws of Manu, 9.95, 101). For more information read the New World Encyclopedia. In the teachings of Sikhism, one of the five great sins is adultery. Please read the Adi Granth, Dhanasari. Therefore, on what ground do we want to allow adultery?

See also the views of Confucianism teachings, Taoism, Jainism, Zoroastrianism, Shintoisme, Bahai and Judaism in the article entitled A Comparison of Morality from the religions from Around the World, http://usminc.org/other.html. Prohibition of adultery is very strict.

Actually the moral issues such as this have been debated by all religions, especially Islam. I do not need to mention the views of Islam, because it's already very clear to keep its followers in the glory of Islam. Therefore, if it happens to the Muslims, then it should be the one of those who commits such acts to be condemned, not the pure religion of Islam.

Furthermore, in justifying between the right and wrong, religion should be the guide and history as a reminder. Attempts to erase the religious and historical facts will only invite mischief on the earth. I believe the fact that I submitted were deliberately spin because of kiasu attitude.