19 July 2006
Respect the Right to Debate and Appreciate Differences
Angkatan Muda KeAdilan (AMK) calls for respect of the fundamental principles of Freedom of Expression, Association and Assembly, all of which are are enshrined not only in the Federal Constitution but also in Islam.
AMK calls on those who are against the coming Article 11 forum to be held in Johor this weekend, to allow it to run its course. It will not reflect well on the state of our ability to discourse in a civil and productive manner, if one insists on shutting down different and differing voices.
There are legitimate reasons for a number of grievances brought forward by the Article 11 coalition. To bury them under threats and harassment will not resolve them.
Moreover, if groups still wish to express their dissent, it must do so in an orderly and peaceful manner and not in a fashion that would disrupt the peace - again in line with principles enshrined under Islam.
Keadilan maintains that right to assembly and expression is a fundamental right. We strongly disapprove the government or the police to curb our right or freedom by imposing police permit on anyone.
We urge all parties to respect the organisers of the forum and allow it to proceed without obstruction. We are aware for many, the topic itself is contentious however, given the complexities,misunderstandings and misgivings of the various interpretation on Islam - its best to dialogue with honesty in order to search for the truth.
In this regard, we strongly urge the opposing party to participate in the forum by sharing their concern. It is well established through the thread of Islamic history, that discourses on Islam and fundamental issues that affect the society had constantly been debated and discussed.
Hence the argumentative tradition through discussions and debates should not be perceived as a threat to Islam.
Shamsul Iskandar Mohd Akin
Vice Youth Chief of KeADILan Youth