The Name of God has become a divisive issue in Malaysia. If one includes the Sikh temple that had been hit by pebbles, a total of 9 places of worship thus far have been the unfortunate recipients of home made bombs and vandalism. UMNO has been swift to react, condemning the attacks and members of the parliament have visited some of the affected churches. Many Muslims have expressed their disapproval and some have taken their own initiative to reach out to the affected, including Dr Mohamed Rafick Khan Abdul Rahman, a blogger who collected donations for repairs.

Malaysia’s delicate balance of religious tolerance is under threat and there seems to be no simple resolution to the situation. Perpetrators have not been apprehended. While UMNO has condemned the attacks, it has suspended the ruling that allowed Christians to use “Allah”. Sentiments on the ground also remain unknown. There is a Facebook group against the ruling that has drawn 200, 000 members amidst public condemnations of the rashness of the actions. The attacks threaten the fragile religious tolerance of Malaysia and no one knows how the issue will be resolved.

Pray that not only restraint but love will be shown by both sides. Thankfully, Christians and Catholics alike have not retaliated. Pray too for reconciliation for all parties. Lastly, may the light of Christ shine ever more brightly through His church in this dark hour for Malaysia.

by Jonas Hong