KUALA LUMPUR – Extreme boycotts should not be encouraged because they reflect bigotry and malice, damaging the religion and morals of Muslims, said Penang Mufti Datuk Seri Wan Salim Wan Mohd Noor.
However, he said that boycotting any restaurant, company, or business premises found to have insulted Islam or helping the enemies of Muslims can, in principle, be considered justified.
He emphasised that boycotts should only be used when absolutely necessary or as a form of protest.
Islam does not encourage extremism and bigotry, even in the name of religion. Such attitudes are typically fueled by ignorance and the closed-mindedness of individuals who cannot tolerate those who hold opposing views and beliefs, Wan Salim added.
“In today’s globalised world, coexisting with fellow citizens of diverse ethnicities, religions, and cultures is a reality that must be acknowledged. This is where understanding and tolerance become crucial,” he told Scoop today.
He said this in response to the actions of some individuals who likened customers eating at a fast food restaurant to dogs and pigs.
Wan Salim said that Malaysia is a pluralistic society in which some incidents could hurt or offend someone’s feelings, whether intentional or not.
Hence, it is important for the people to be wise enough to handle such situations to avoid escalating tensions that could lead to harmful conflicts and jeopardise the country’s peace and harmony.
“From an Islamic perspective, diversity is seen as something natural. It is the will of Allah SWT, intended for people to get to know each other and to benefit from the unique qualities of every race and group of people in the country.
“In this way, diversity becomes a positive factor, contributing to mutual benefit rather than being a reason for hatred and enmity,” he said.
At the same time, he urged all Malaysians to continue to work together to foster unity and tolerance among each other. – April 17, 2024
