MB: Images of idols not allowed

Sunday May 27, 2012

KOTA BARU: PAS appears to make a small consensus following the controversy on designs of new buildings but insist there be no image of idols.

The Kelantan government would allow buildings to be constructed without any Islamic feature so long they did not have elements that were against the religion, said Kelantan Mentri Besar Datuk Nik Abdul Aziz Mat.

“Islam is a universal religion and suitable for all races. The Buddhist association can build it (its new building) as long as it does not have elements that go against Islam.

“For instance, they can have any Chinese design, architecture or colour, but they are discouraged from putting images of idols on the buildings,” he said after launching the state Muktamar Dewan Ulama PAS in Machang yesterday.

He was commenting on a controversy involving the Kelantan Buddhist Association, which was required to abide by municipal by-laws requiring new buildings within its jurisdiction to have Islamic features.

It had been reported that the Kelantan Buddhist Association had submitted an appeal to the state government for its building to be constructed with Chinese features at Jalan Sultan Zainal Abidin here.

Nik Abdul Aziz, who is also PAS spiritual leader, said the state government had no problem with the Chinese community and highlighted that they had built the Golden Jubilee Mosque, better known as the Chinese Mosque, which was inspired from his visit to Beijing.

“The mosque was created 100% based on Chinese design and architecture. Previously, many Chinese groups had also approached me to seek approval to build Chinese-themed buildings and I approved them,” he added.

On a statement by former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad that “unceasing violent demonstration” might erupt if Pakatan Rakyat loses in the coming general election, Nik Abdul Aziz said such incidents would not occur as the Opposition did not promote political violence.

“We have lost in many general elections and it (violence) has never happened,” he said.

In LABIS, MCA Young Professionals Bureau chief Datuk Chua Tee Yongsaid the state government should focus on the basic needs of the people such as clean piped water supply instead of emphasising on non-welfare related matters.

He also challenged DAP to make its stand clear on PAS’ new ruling