 |
Oktoberfest
|
Malaysiakini : He took a bold stand and high risk by strenuously defending the
rights of non-Muslims - the Jews - in Morrocco so much so that he was
severely penalised by being banished to Libya.Protection from persecution
Islamic
history also records the noble contribution of a renowned Algerian
figure who fought for independence against the French invasion. His name
was Amir Abd El-Kader.
Other than his bravery in fighting against
the non-Muslim invasion of his land, he was also known to have
protected the lives of non-Muslims - the Maronite Christians - who were
persecuted by overzealous elements in the Muslim camps.
Such an incident took place during the 1860 Mount Lebanon civil war.
His
magnanimous conduct did not escape the attention of many non-Muslim
leaders. History has duly cemented such a lofty demeanour.
The late Abraham Lincoln even extolled his awesome virtues. One of the towns in Iowa, America, was also named after him.
Yes, this Muslim hero fought fearlessly against the non-Muslim invaders who colonised his country.
Yet,
that, in itself, did not deter him from safeguarding the life of the
non-Muslims who were subjected to unfair persecution by some fanatical
Muslims.
In helping the Christian adherents during such a civil
war, he never harboured any resentment, ill will, or vendetta against
the non-Muslims despite the fact the latter colonised his land in
Algeria.
Respect rights
What do all these
historical events tell us? Yes, they tell us that Muslims are not
supposed to have qualms in respecting and protecting the rights of
non-Muslims.
Constitutionally speaking, I respectfully submit that
the rights of non-Muslims to participate in Oktoberfest are firmly
enshrined in Article 11 of our apex law.
Hence, they have every
right to practise their own religion unhindered by any threats. Such a
sacrosanct right ought to be jealously upheld.
Some Muslims
harbour unfounded fears that the beer festival which is a public affair
may engender some elements of public disorder, supposing the liquor
drinkers are to be overwhelmed by severe intoxication or drunkness. As
such, they argued, the beer festival ought not to be allowed.
I am
of the view such concerns, assuming they are valid, still cannot
diminish the embedded rights duly enshrined by Article 11 of the
Constitution.
If at all there would be a public disorder, the
proviso in sub-article 5 of Article 11 could still be resorted to by the
authorities, if necessities arise.
