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April 04, 2014

I am writing in response to the recent decision by the Film Censorship Board of Malaysia, as a result of which the latest Darren Aronofsky film Noah has been banned in Malaysia.

Firstly, let me express my deepest dissatisfaction with this highly unjust and shameful decision. It is another ban which is not only wrong and misjudged but also harmful for Malaysia, which tries to present itself as a tolerant and moderate Muslim country.

In fact, another film ban (after the The Wolf of the Wolf Street) is nothing more but just another clear message that Malaysia is a country far from tolerant, where non-Muslims must (on what grounds?) abide by Muslim laws.

As we all know, this is not the case, as one can eat non-halal food in restaurants.

In my opinion, if we accept the Board's ruling, I believe Malaysian law-enforcement authorities, following the logic applied by FCB, will have to close all non-halal businesses in this country: from restaurants serving pork to Beach Club and Chinese liquor shops.

From this point of view, attempts to ban Christians using the word Allah is incongruent with these conservative and exclusive tendencies. But then, please, do not try to convince us, non-Muslims living in Malaysia and the world, that Malaysia is tolerant, moderate and open.

Secondly, let me argue with the Board's ruling and point out, how illogical and harmful this decision is.

As a Christian I do not have to abide by Muslim law. But I cant understand, why am I deprived of the possibility of watching a movie which is not insulting my religious feelings?

If the Board is so concerned about feelings of Muslims, which is in fact its duty, that is all right, however it cant, as a result, limit my freedoms.

Read the original here:
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