In a notable move, Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim lauded the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) resolution on ‘countering religious hatred constituting incitement to discrimination, hostility or violence’. This resolution was prompted by the controversial Quran-burning incident outside Stockholm’s central mosque during the recent Aidiladha celebrations.
On July 12, the UNHRC adopted this pivotal resolution, with 28 of the 47 council members, including Malaysia, voting in favour. However, 12 member states voted against the resolution, with seven abstaining. PM Anwar expressed concern over the rising fire of hatred, often hidden behind the veils of free speech and expression, as demonstrated by the dissenting member states.
Anwar, in a candid statement, urged the dissenters to consider the ramifications of their choices. He emphasized the disservice their decisions could pose to the UNHRC’s noble cause and the potential undermining of human rights. The prime minister stressed the risk of misusing free speech to sanction hate and cruelty rather than combating oppression.
Taking a firm stance, PM Anwar suggested that an extremist notion of freedom could be just as damaging as the extremes of totalitarianism. Such extremist views might pave the way for further violations of people’s rights to life and safety.
Applauding the Swedish government’s stance against Islamophobia, Anwar conveyed his anticipation to see the Swedish police uphold this position in their investigations. He remarked that the destructive acts of a few could only be counterbalanced by mutual respect, care, compassion, and understanding among the majority.
Anwar concluded by highlighting that Islamophobia is a threat to both Western nations and Muslims worldwide. He urged for a more compassionate and understanding approach to addressing these issues, instead of desecrating each other’s religious texts. This news is based on a malaymail.com article.
