INCIDENTS such as the recent protest in the Muslim-majority neighbourhood of Taman Medan in Petaling Jaya which forced the removal of a churchs cross ” regardless of whether there was any involvement of a political party ” demonstrates a regrettable level of religious tolerance among Malaysians. More regrettable, however, are the politicians who have thus far done little to help alleviate the problem, which actually was resolved peacefully. Instead, there was a clear intent by some to exploit the situation for political expedience. That the ensuing debate ” politeness dictates the use of the term ” exhibits a public fracture that runs along political lines is clear testament of this. Unfortunately, the inspector general of police (IGP) found himself caught right smack in the middle, his take on the matter questioned. That his position and that of the home minister were at odds only made the situation murkier than it need be. The former does not see a need for the protesters to be investigated for sedition while the latter insisted otherwise.
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