Downloaded from: http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2006/11/17/nation/16047587&sec=nation

The Star
17th November 2006

Christian group lauds Pak Lah’s assuring message

KUALA LUMPUR: The National Evangelical Christian Fellowship Malaysia has lauded Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi for his firm and assuring statements made in his presidential address at the opening of the assembly.

Its secretary-general Rev Wong Kim Hong said yesterday that Abdullah’s statements reflected his sincerity and commitment to his responsibility as the Prime Minister of all Malaysians.

Wong said in a statement that although Abdullah’s speech was read in his position as Umno president, his group deemed the message beneficial to all as it was aimed at raising a generation of united and progressive Malaysians.

The Women’s Aid Organisation said it supported Abdullah’s call to promote, protect and respect gender equality, tolerance, media freedom, integrity and the rule of law.

“It is a stern warning to those who sow seeds of discord, fear and misinformation,” said its executive director Ivy Josiah.

Sisters in Islam said it felt the reminder by the Prime Minister was timely in view of rising conservatism, intolerance and radicalism.
“We hope all parties will stop the incitement of the Muslims with allegations that are twisted and untrue,” its programme manager Norhayati Kaprawi said in a press statement.

Abim president Yusri Mohamad said any fanatical or liberal interpretation of the teachings of Islam would be inaccurate.
“Whatever the problems or issues that arise should be dealt with objectively and with much tolerance.”

Meanwhile, Transparency International – Malaysia said it strongly supported Abdullah’s statement against corruption.

“TI-Malaysia urges the public to respond to the PM’s call by reporting all cases of corruption and submit substantive evidence to the authorities,” said its president Tan Sri Ramon V. Navaratnam.