Although some might say this statement came alil late, but i feel its better late than never. With us being smack right between countries with heavy islamic population, its an assurance that would help maintain the racial, cultural and religious harmony we have cultivated over the years.
This statement was issued by a group of 12 Malay/Muslim organisations in Singapore to reject both the use of terrorism and the groups who advocate and use terrorism.
read the full statement below:
bq.. SINCE the attacks on the World Trade Center in New York last year, Muslims and Islam have come under very close scrutiny. This is also the case in Singapore, particularly after the arrests here of members of the Jemaah Islamiah.
The fact that there are terrorist groups using the name of Islam has made it necessary for us to come forward and explain the true position of Islam with regard to terrorism and reiterate our rejection of such groups and terrorism – both as a matter of conscience and national concern.
bq.. Latest JI arrests: What was your reaction?
That terrorism is at odds with the text and spirit of the Holy Quran and the ethical precepts and practices of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is clear to all Muslims and others who are enlightened about Islam.
Firstly, Islam does not permit the use of fear tactics and violence against innocent men, women and children. The overriding value of human life, be it Muslim or non-Muslim, is clearly stated in the Quran. For example, the Quran says: ‘If anyone killed a person… it would be as if he killed all mankind.’ (al-Maidah 5:32)
Secondly, devoted Muslims are expected to be loyal citizens of the country of their birth and residence. As a well-known saying in Islam states that ‘the love of the homeland is a part of the faith’. Those who claim to be acting at the behest of God and in the name of Islam when carrying out terrorist acts, are, without a doubt, in reality carrying out grave transgressions of the teachings of Islam.
We would like to express our gratitude to the Government of Singapore and other community and religious leaders for their support. We also would like to reiterate that we unequivocally support all efforts to maintain security in Singapore. We, the undersigned, are committed to become an integral part of our multi-racial, multi-cultural and multi-religious society. We will continue to work towards enlarging the common space of all Singaporeans.
In the spirit of peace and harmony, we call upon all Singaporeans to unite against terrorism and all other forms of violence that may result in the wanton destruction of property and loss of innocent lives.
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