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Last Updated: 2:17pm, Nov 27, 2013

PETALING JAYA (Nov 27): A suggestion by a state executive councillor for all entertainment spots, shopping malls and supermarkets in Johor to close for two hours for Friday prayers has created uneasiness among non-Muslims in the state.

Sin Chew Daily in its editorial today expressed strong objection to the call made by Ayub Rahmat, describing it as “wrong and uncalled for.”

The newspaper said even though Ayub mooted the suggestion two days ago in his personal capacity, it had raised intense discussions in Johor and caused uneasiness.

“With Puteri Wangsa PAS state assemblyman Abdullah Husin’s suggestion to switch Johor weekend eventually became a reality, the non-Muslims were worried that Ayub’s suggestion would turn into another far-reaching government decision,” the daily said.

Ayub has said he would suggest for the state Islamic Religious Department to make it a law for all business premises like supermarkets, shopping malls and entertainment spots to be closed from noon to 2pm every Friday.

Elaborating to Sinar Harian, he said it was just a suggestion which would involve various parties in order to be implemented.

“So, please don’t speculate. However, if it can be implemented, I’d be very happy because it brings great benefits, especially to the Muslims,” he added.

Pointing out that 45% of Johor population comprises non-Muslims, the vernacular daily said, once the proposal is implemented, the lives of non-Muslim Johoreans would surely be affected.

“Should the non-Muslims’ interest and feeling be ignored?” it asked.

To sum up, the editorial said, Johor is a state with religious harmony where the non-Muslims could openly accept its decision to switch weekend rest days from Saturday-Sunday to Friday-Saturday.

However, when some portions exaggerated religious needs at the expense of their fundamental rights, the non-Muslims would not just keep quiet but would firmly oppose the proposal instead.

Hence the daily hoped the authorities would be tolerant and rational as usual and be persistent in upholding the noble principle of pluralistic coexistence for a sustainable and harmonious society.


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