Islam doesn't teach us to pray for other Muslims' ruin, says Dr Akmal

The Star

4 days ago

SHAH ALAM: Praying for the destruction of fellow Muslims over political differences is inappropriate and contrary to Islamic teachings, says Datuk Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh ( pic ).
The Umno Youth chief emphasised that although differing views in politics are common, Islam never teaches its followers to insult each other, let alone pray for the ruin of fellow Muslims, Sinar Harian reported.
"Some recite the Qunut Nazilah prayer for the destruction of certain individuals, even if they are fellow Muslims.
"Others compare them to monkeys and foreign leaders to other animals, while the discussions are actually aimed at saving thousands of lives due to the war between two countries.
"Differing opinions are normal, being angry at political opponents is normal too, but Islam does not teach us to pray for the destruction of fellow Muslims or to insult others," the Malay language daily quoted him as saying in a statement on Facebook on Tuesday (July 29).
Dr Akmal also said that differences in opinion should be based on facts, not immature emotions that ultimately incite baseless hatred within the community.
He explained that narrow-minded political approaches that undermine intellect will only worsen the public's perception of the political institution itself.
"If some say that those on the other side have done the same thing before, I respond, if people in the past ate filth, should we do the same? Certainly not, because we know it's dirty.
"I have no intention of being a sycophant, let alone a 'walanon'.
"There are also things I disagree with, but if something is right, we should praise it, and if it's wrong, we should criticise it," he added.
His Facebook post included a picture of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Thailand's acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai.
He further said that people today desire mature, constructive politics, not narrow politics of hatred that alienate society from noble values.
"We need to realise that if we can't do good, we shouldn't prevent others from doing good.
"If politicians continue with the old style of narrow politics, don't be surprised if the public becomes increasingly fed up and resentful of politics," he further remarked.
He also emphasized that he was neither a "walaun" nor a "walanon", and has no interest in becoming one, but is merely expressing his sentiments to prevent Islam from being slandered due to the irresponsible attitude of a few.