So Masagos Zulkifli came out with all guns blazing accusing WP’s Faisal Manap of playing to the gallery to score political points. What did Faisal Manap do to earn the ire of Masagos? Well, once again, Faisal brought up an issue dear to the Muslim community which is the hijab issue. This, according to Masagos, was tantamount to being divisive. From Masagos’ point of view, the correct way to bring the issue forward was to discuss it behind closed doors.
Excuse me Mr Masagos, Faisal Manap, as an MP representing the minority Malay community in his ward, was just doing his job. If as an MP he cannot voice out such issues in Parliament, where else can he voice out? Does he have to resort to speaking to nobody at the Speaker’s Corner? Why the need for minority representation in a GRC if matters like this cannot be raised in Parliament?
You, as a Minister, was also being disrespectful by attacking him like this. Why didn’t you use the parliamentary platform to address the issues? Where is your patience, a virtue of Prophet Muhammad SAW which is encouraged in Islam?
How many times has the government engaged the Malay/Muslim community, as well as the wider community, on the topic of hijab and discrimination in NS? These are matters that not only affect our community but also the wider Singaporean community?
Why the need to discuss behind closed doors all the time? Has there been any improvements using this approach? Yes this is a sensitive and emotive issue but don’t forget that Malays are now more integrated than ever and are more educated. We can accept decisions based on sound reasoning and if they are not in conflict with our religious tenets. We understand that there are other issues that need to be considered. We are not myopic and narrow minded.
Rahman
[Reader Contribution]
