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PETALING JAYA: Umno ministers will raise the matter on the public usage of the word “Allah”, amongst others, during the Cabinet meeting on Wednesday (May 17), says Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said.
The Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department said Umno will continue to fight and defend Islam as the religion of the Federation as well as respecting religious freedom provided in the Constitution.
“A comprehensive solution should be discussed and achieved on the use which should include legal approaches that are referred to the Federal Court as well as other non-judicial approaches.
“The issue of using the word 'Allah' must be handled carefully because it involves the sensitivity of religion, religious freedom, and harmony among the racial diversity in Malaysia.
“In this matter, a detailed review is needed to address the issues in a fair and just manner for all parties involved,” she said in a statement Tuesday (May 16).
On Monday (May 15), Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said the government had withdrawn its appeal against the High Court decision which allowed the word “Allah”, among others, to be used by non-Muslims in publications for educational purposes.
The government withdrew its appeal through a notice filed by the Attorney General’s Chambers on April 18.
Saifuddin also said the Cabinet was informed of the Home Ministry’s decision a few months ago.
