CHRISTIAN GROUP REJECTS TRUMP’S MOVE
US leader misused faith, Bible to fulfil political agenda, says Ancom adviser
PUTRAJAYA
UNITED States president Donald Trump has misused the Christian faith and the Bible to justify his actions, including recognising Jerusalem as Israel’s capital.
Association of Nexgen Christians of Malaysia (Ancom) adviser Jason Leong said Trump’s agenda centred on the need to fulfil his political agenda and domestic political positioning.
“As a result, we are concerned about the devastating consequences to the longstanding Israeli-Palestinian conflict
“Therefore, we reject the use of the Bible to legitimise or support political options that are based upon injustice,” said Leong, who, along with 40 Ancom members had gathered at 11am here yesterday, to protest US threats and support rally participants.
Leong said the rally’s theme was not only confined to Muslim interests, as the move to claim Jerusalem as the capital of Israel would not just erode the hope for peace between Israelis and Palestinians, but also deepened religious tension among Muslims, Jews and Christians.
“Many are unaware that there are Palestinian Christians who are also affected by Trump’s move.
“This is an issue of humanity where the peace and harmony of the people are at stake.”
Echoing similar sentiments, Malaysia Crime Prevention Foundation (MCPF) senior vicechairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye said Malaysians, regardless of race and religion, should support the call against US’ decision on Jerusalem.
“This is not about religion but it involves the human race.
“Through this solidarity rally, I hope it will attract international attention and support.”
Federal Territory Mufti Datuk Dr Zulkifli Mohamad alBakri, in his Friday prayer sermon at the Putra Mosque, said it was incumbent upon all to be aware and understand the issue as it was “close to the hearts” of Muslims around the world.
The prayers at the mosque were led by the Grand Imam of the National Mosque, Tan Sri Syaikh Ismail Muhammad.
He called on Muslims to defend the honour of Jerusalem, akin to the Baitullah in Mecca and the Nabawi Mosque in Madinah.
“I wish to call on all Muslims to demonstrate our solidarity with the Palestinians in their struggle to liberate Jerusalem and Palestine from colonisation and oppression.
“Let’s assemble after this (sermon) to voice our support and express the spirit of intifada (uprising) for the Palestinians,” he said in his sermon in conjunction with the Solidarity Rally For Jerusalem.
He said it was important to defend Jerusalem because it was a sacred land glorified by God.
Zulkifli reminded Muslims that in their enthusiasm to express solidarity with the Palestinians, they should abide by the rules in accordance with the concept of wasatiyyah (moderation).
“All efforts must be taken to restore the right of the Palestinians to a peaceful and just life.
“Hence, let’s set aside any distraction that stands in the way of unity among us.
“This is the time for us to work together, pray and help every oppressed Muslim.”