MIC, which has been criticised over a Muslim prayer recital at its new headquarters, has clarified that there was no intention to mock or insult Islam.

Party information chief R. Thinalan said a video of the August 21 event commencing with an “al-Fatihah” verse recital followed by Muslim prayers had been taken out of context.

“MIC is a political party that represents the Indian community irrespective of religious beliefs. The ground-breaking ceremony for the new MIC headquarters is a milestone for the party and the community,” he said in a statement today.

“We held prayers for the building project to take off well. Apart from Hindu prayers, we also held Muslim and Christian prayers as the community is composed of Indian Muslims and Indian Christians too. 

“Our intentions were pure and there was no intention to mock or insult.”

Earlier, MIC deputy president M. Saravanan has said that Islamic and Christian prayers were conducted at the ceremony as “the party is for all religions”.

“How do Muslim and Christian party members participate in the event if the event is held with only one religious ceremony?” he asked.

The Federal Territories Islamic Religious Department (Jawi) has said that it is probing into the event, which was attended by Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

“Any offence related to ‘akidah’ can lead to legal action and punishment under section 559 of the Syariah Criminal Offences (Federal Territories) Act 1997,” Jawi said.

“Islamic teachings encourage religious harmony and tolerance, especially in a multiracial nation. However, everyone is advised to always refer to the religious authorities to ensure that the actions are in line with the ‘hukum syarak’.” 

PAS and Islamic groups have condemned MIC for including Muslim prayers in its event.

Malay nationalist movement Perkasa called on the Islamic authorities to take action over the event, saying the inclusion of Muslim prayers at an MIC event could cause Muslim anger and confusion. – August 24, 2023.