article 11 Federal Constitution

Stop the forums Article 11 forums to discuss inter-faith issues must stop immediately because they are deemed to cause tension in our multi-religious society, Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi said. He also called on the media to carry out its responsibility not to stir up anger and tension among the masses. the front page report from The Star In a civilised society which practises democracy all closed door meetings/forums should be allowed. The people of the country should be open minded and not protest without understanding the issues involved. The majority race shouldnt feel threatened. It is best that they too participate in the forums. A religion shouldnt be a closed affair. You want to spread the wings of a religion you should be brave enough to withstand the discussions. Apparently in Malaysia this discussion can't be carried out because the majority race feels it is the right enshrined in the Constitution. History has shown it is with the agreement of the previous leaders of each race that this Constitution came about. I believe the forums are used to discuss intelligently bearing in mind the sensitivity of the other races in the country. As long as it remains closed doors, it should be allowed. I think nobody should protest about it. I can't understand why the Malays so against it. Have they forgotten the input of the other races of the country? Independence achieved on the strength of unity of all the races in the country. This is what it would be. But I am afraid the majority race is trying to impose its own ways and values to other races which I think it shouldnt be. We are not a race. We are Malaysians. I guess I am one of those who think this way.... Malaysia....where are the values for Malaysians?