"We don't 'bribe' for people to convert to Islam" - Harussani

The freedom of religion in the Constitution is understandably is the issue of individual rights and does not apply to the teachings and practice of Islam, said Perak Mufti Tan Sri Tan Sri Harussani Zakaria.

He justified that the law of not allowing the freedom of religion in Islam was clear to Muslims, hence the issue stated in the constitution can be deemed invalid.

"We ought to refuse the constitution which calls for freedom of religion. It is clear in Islam that under whatever circumstances we can't allow Muslims to convert to other religions.

"If you were born a Muslim, then you can't choose other religion. Since the country’s independence, it was stated in the Constitution and agreed upon," said Harussani, when contacted by Astro AWANI

Harussani was responding to a statement by Minister in the Prime Minister Office, Datuk Paul Low who described the freedom of religion is part of human rights and it should be applicable to all.

Low said, although there has been no arguments with any party pertaining to the matter, people should be given the right to choose any religion they want.

The absolute freedom in choosing a religion, said Harussani should be avoided to avoid a situation of real chaos in the country.

"It was stated in the Constitution that we cannot influence other religions and provoke them. In Islam, we were taught not to interfere with the belief of others, or bribe them with money to convert to Islam,” he explained.

He stated that the ministers or anyone should be advised not to interfere with the Constitution and avoid any arguments.

"Don't question the Constitution, adhere to it. No one should argue and highlight the matter to the United Nations (UN) as this is an internal issue and we should solve this internally," Harussani said.

The Constitution of Malaysia stated that everyone has the right to profess and practice their religion and (adhere to the law to restrict the spread of other religions to Muslims) in order to spread them.

The constitution also stated that Islam is the official federal religion of Malaysia but other religions may be practiced in peace and harmony.