Human rights advocate and lawyer Siti Kasim has taken to social media to challenge what she calls an increasingly irrational mindset among some Malays in Peninsular Malaysia—particularly the fear or hostility towards T-shaped designs that resemble the Christian cross.
Citing past incidents such as the uproar over a cross on a church in Taman Medan, Petaling Jaya (2015) and the illuminated cross-shaped lighting on a Penang high-rise (2019), Siti expressed disbelief that such symbols could spark public protests. She questioned why the sight of a Christian cross, or anything that resembles it, should be considered threatening to Muslim faith.
Siti recalled her school days at Methodist Girls’ Secondary School in Melaka, where a large cross stood in the hall. Despite being in a Christian school, she and her Malay Muslim peers never felt their religious beliefs were compromised. “None of us questioned our faith simply because a cross was in front of us,” she said.
Now, she finds it baffling how some Muslims seem to think the mere sight of a cross could convert someone to Christianity. “Such mentality is worsening by the days … The irrationality is on the rise maybe due to social media influence. As for the Taman Medan incident, could they (protestors) being manipulated by certain political quarters for ordinary Malays are usually not bothered with such matters?” she asked.
Siti also pointed out the hypocrisy in how Malays view non-Muslim countries. In places that Malays often label as kafir (infidel), Muslims are allowed to worship freely, build mosques, and live in peace. Why can't Malays offer the same respect to Christians in their own country?
Calling for a more mature and tolerant mindset, she warned that the growing religious paranoia is not only unnecessary but damaging. She urged the authorities to step in and promote interfaith understanding rather than allow fear-based narratives to spread.
Siti concluded by stressing that real outrage should be saved for issues like corruption and abuse—not peaceful religious symbols. “Don’t think that you want to control or bully others just because you’re in the majority,” she said.
Respecting religious harmony in an inter-racial, multi-religious country is absolutely essential for maintaining peace, social stability, and national unity. Here's why it's so important:
Promotes Social Cohesion: When different religious and ethnic groups respect each other's beliefs, it fosters a sense of belonging and mutual trust. This creates a harmonious society where people can live, work, and interact peacefully despite their differences.
Reduces Conflict and Violence: Religious intolerance has often been a root cause of social unrest and even violence in diverse societies. By upholding religious harmony, nations can prevent tensions from escalating into larger conflicts.
Protects Minority Rights: Respecting religious harmony ensures that minority groups are treated fairly and their places of worship, practices, and identities are safeguarded. This is critical in upholding human rights and promoting inclusiveness.
Supports National Development: A peaceful and stable society attracts investment, tourism, and talent. Religious harmony allows the government and citizens to focus on economic growth, education, and infrastructure rather than dealing with social divisions.
Reflects Moral and Ethical Values: Respecting others’ faiths is a universal principle taught by all major religions. It demonstrates maturity, empathy, and moral responsibility in a pluralistic society.
Fosters Interfaith Dialogue and Understanding: Respect leads to meaningful conversations and learning between religious groups. It opens the door to collaboration in addressing common societal issues, such as poverty, education, and healthcare.
Religious harmony is not just a matter of tolerance—it's a foundation for a peaceful and progressive nation. Without it, diversity becomes a point of division instead of strength.
Information Source: Focus Malaysia
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