Source: The Star
[thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2006/6/18/focus/14577667&sec=focus]
On June 18, 2006 The Star ran an opinion piece by Dr. Chandra Muzaffar, President of the International Movement for a Just World. Muzaffar writes, "I was perplexed – and perturbed – by the remark attributed to the State Mufti of Perak, Datuk Seri Harussani Zakaria, that pluralism was an attack upon the faith of the Muslims (Star, June 14, 2006). What does pluralism mean in the Mufti’s dictionary? Pluralism in the social sciences refers to 'the existence of different types of people, who have different types of beliefs and opinions, within the same society'. There are different dimensions to pluralism. Political pluralism, for instance, is characterized by a diversity of political ideas often expressed through a multitude of political parties. The presence of different cultures and traditions within a society signifies cultural pluralism. When different religions co-exist within the same polity, it is religious pluralism. No civilization in history has demonstrated a more resolute commitment to pluralism than Islam. The principles of pluralism are anchored in the Quran itself. A number of verses attest to this, among them Surah 5:48, Surah 11:118, Surah 22:67, Surah 30:22 and Surah 49:13. The Quranic message on pluralism and diversity was also reflected in the Charter of Medina which the Prophet Muhammad (may peace be upon him) formulated. It brought together different religious and ethnic communities, bestowing upon each of them equal rights and responsibilities. The treaty which the Prophet forged with the Christian monks of Najran, protecting their monastery and guaranteeing them freedom of religion, was yet another testimony to pluralism."