Govt practises 'Wasatiyyah' in Lahad Datu intrusion

The assault against intruders in Lahad Datu, Sabah was launched after efforts to avoid bloodshed was rejected proves that the government practises the 'wasatiyyah' (moderation) concept. Dean of Islamic Revealed Knowledge and Human Sciences Faculty, International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM), Prof Datuk Dr Mahmood Zuhdi Ab Majid said the government offensive followed the killing of two police commandos. "We didn't want to kill them, but unfortunately they started killing and we had to retaliate," he told Bernama after presenting a paper at 'Wasatiyyah Drives National Civilisation' seminar here today. Commenting on the government stand rejecting a ceasefire until the intruders surrender unconditionally, Mahmood Zuhdi said that it was appropriate and not against the law. Asked about the call by United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon that the 'violence' in Sabah be stopped and to find a peaceful solution, he said Malaysia has the right to make its own decision and stand. "Its not against UN's policy. We don't necessarily have to follow what Ban said as he was talking about general policy. It doesn't mean we reject dialogue but let the negotiations be held in a more suitable condition." Earlier in his paper entitled 'Wasatiyyah Approach and Challenge Of Extremism in Malaysia, Mahmood Zahudi said extremism within the Muslim community is wrong and should be abolished because it is exaggerated. Extremism in Malaysia comes in the form of faith and prayers, food and beverage services; family, finance; politics and the government. "Extremism that exist in our country can be felt in our daily life and is a threat to the 'wasatiyyah' approach," said the commissioner of Human Rights Commission Malaysia (Suhakam). Mahmood Zuhdi suggested that indepth studies be conducted to look at challenges faced by the 'wasatiyyah' concept as extremism will only hinder government efforts. The 'wasatiyyah' approach should be really simple in determining any agenda to ensure that it can be understood by all to avoid prejudice to the 'wasatiyyah' concept. "In Islam, there are many guidelines on how this can be implemented including via the 'amal makruf and nahi mungkar' approach." The seminar was attended by over 800 participants comprising staff of government departments and agencies, the private sector and university students nationwide.