Malaysian Churches are Taking a Stand for Religious Freedom

February 23, 2008

Author: SEAN YOONG

Source: The Providence Journal

Wire Service: AP

http://www.projo.com/religion/content/LB_malaysian_church_02-23-08_N8935P1_v7.1d60d26.html

Malaysia’s churches are wading cautiously into politics by urging Christians to vote for candidates in next month’s general elections who champion religious freedom in the Muslim-majority society.

The call illustrates growing concern among religious minorities who feel their rights are being eroded by a rise in Islamic fervor, which many blame on overzealous Muslim bureaucrats in Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi’s government.

Churches have begun handing out brochures urging Christians to examine the platforms and records of political parties on “freedom of religion, conscience and speech” before casting their ballots in the March 8 national elections.