‘Revoke controversial clause of Islamic Bill’
The provision under Clause 107B is fundamentally unjust as it denies the rights of one parent, says Senator Paul Low.
Alyaa Azhar, FMT
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Paul Low has called for the Administration of Islamic Law (Federal Territories) Act Amendment Bill 2013 to be amended by revoking Clause 107B.
“The provision under Clause 107B is fundamentally unjust as it denies the rights of one parent on the welfare of his or her children, and the children are also denied the protection of their right to receive guidance from both parents as to their well-being,” he said in a statement today.
The Bill which is being tabled at the Dewan Rakyat allows unilateral conversion of the religion of a minor by one parent.
Clause 107B states that a non-Muslim can convert to Islam if he is of sound mind, and if he has not attained the age of 18 years, and the mother or father or guardian consent to the conversion.
Low added that the clause provides an avenue for one parent to conveniently bypass due process of the law to gain custody of the children in the case of a family dispute.
“A responsible society cannot support an unrighteous law. It should uphold social justice,” he said.
Meanwhile, MCA president Dr Chua Soi Lek expressed his party’s objection to the tabling of the Bill as it infringes the rights of the non-Muslims.
“The Bill is seen as an infringement of rights of the non-Muslims and although MCA no longer holds position in the Cabinet, we will still ensure the Chinese community’s interest is secured and maintained,” he said.
He however expressed his confidence that Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak and Deputy Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin will consult all Barisan Nasional (BN) component parties because of the strong objection from MCA and MIC, as well as the public.
“I hope that the government will re-look into the Bill and obtain feedback from all relevant parties before making any further decision.
“Public consultation is crucial before deciding on any policies that will affect the nation,” said Chua.
Since the Bill was tabled in Parliament last week, critics have cried foul because it means seeking the consent of either parent instead of both – a move deemed to be unconstitutional and contravening the Cabinet’s prohibition.
