September – October 2008 PP5872/01/2009 (020498)

A bi-monthly publication of the National Evangelical Christian Fellowship Berita of NECF Editorial Soft Power vs Hard Power

wenty-first century leaders overthrow the Roman government humility, an emptying of oneself of need to acquire ‘soft power’ at that time, our Lord came as a his personal ambition and desires, because ‘hard power’ has its bond servant to do the will of His and take on God’s vision and His T heavenly Father. heart. limitations in dealing with today’s complex and interdependent John the Baptist identified Jesus Besides soft power, leaders who world. So said the Raja Muda of as “the Lamb of God who takes want to consistently, radically and Perak, Raja Nazrin Shah, when away the sin of the world” (John concretely share His redeeming he delivered a speech entitled ‘On 1:29). That was the thrust of His love must have an intimate know- Leadership’ at the 17th Tun Ismail mission. Jesus’ leadership began ledge of God’s heart. Even when Ovation in July. by setting an example of Himself, fear, isolation or despair invade According to him, soft power which then spilled over to His their soul, such leaders know their is non-coercive, and it hinges disciples. That was how He came to God to be faithful, and dependable on working with and through reveal His Father’s love to mankind. as David did when he charged people. It is the power exercised Likewise, the Christian leader is Solomon to build the temple, “Be by ‘transformational leaders’ who called to be completely irrelevant strong and of good courage, and strive to achieve higher ideals, and to stand in the world with nothing to offer but his vulnerable nobler values and more superior Continued on page 3... behaviour among their followers. self. More often, he will be Besides soft power, a 21st century misunderstood for his ‘passiveness’, leader also needs to possess two especially when he demonstrates other equally important qualities: patience and kindness. He will be Inside this Issue 1) charisma, and 2) morality and looked upon as insignificant, but Chairman: The Malady... 2 justice. within him lays the latent power of How apt for him to mention the gospel. Helping Our Youths Belong 4 these qualities that can be translated To be such a leader who will Moving the Church Out... 6 as the key qualities for our church leave an indelible print in people’s A Praying Church 8 leaders today. lives, he ought to have this soft But let’s focus on soft power power – working with people and Revival for What? 9 here. When He was on earth, Jesus through people, delegating and One Hundred Days 11 used the soft power approach to networking with the sole objective Youths, Arise... 12 accomplish His mission. Though of empowering people to advance the people had expected Him to the Kingdom of God. Book on Religious Liberty 13 come as their reigning king to But to have soft power demands State Spot 15

www.necf.org.my/html/berita_f.htm NECF Malaysia Council Chairman Rev. Eu Hong Seng Chairman’s Message Vice-Chairman Elder Kong Yeng Phooi Honorary Secretary Pr Tay Wah Seng Honorary Treasurer The Malady of the Dr Khoo Kay Hup Committee Members Rev. Dexter Low Bramble Tree Leadership Rev. Ng Kok Kee Rev. Richard Ong Rev. Peter Mutang here is a story in Judges chapter Jotham used Rev. Foo Moy Peng 9, that I feel needs to be brought the parable to Rev. Elisha Satvinder T Rev. Simon Chandran to our attention occasionally. A wicked make a point Pr Alfred Phua man, Abimelech, killed 70 men to about the Pr Jerry Dusing ensure that he would be chosen king situation which Mrs Grace Hee of Shechem. When the righteous he and God’s Jotham, Gideon’s youngest son, heard people found By Rev. Eu Hong Seng Advisors Rev. Tan Sri Prince Guneratnam that Abimelech had indeed been themselves in. appointed, he told a very vivid parable This is the NECF Malaysia Staff about the trees. same predicament the Church at large Acting Secretary-General The trees were seeking a king faces. It seems to me that the trees Samuel Ang and sought first to anoint the olive showed good judgment initially in Senior Executive Secretary Patrick Cheng tree. The olive tree, which produces recognising the one who ought to be Executive Secretaries olive oil, is a symbol of anointing. their leader, the one anointed, with the Ann Low (Prayer) The olive tree (leadership), though most talent and qualified for the task. Kathryn Tan (Finance) anointed, declined to be king for a Undaunted by the olive’s refusal Lim Siew Foong (Research) seemingly good reason. Next the fig they turned to the fig, who was nearly Cheong Sze Ying (Chinese) Alfred Tais (Bahasa Malaysia) tree was approached. The fruitful but as talented as the olive. Imagine the Larry Lee (Youth and Leadership dispassionate fig tree (leadership) also frustration felt by the entire group as Development) refused. Eventually the grapevine was they could get no one who qualified to Simon S. Arputham (Administrator) asked to serve, but he, being alive but take up the leadership responsibility. Ong Juat Heng (Communications) somewhat religious, likewise declined. As the frustration mounted, they Jeff Chok (Information Technology) Confidential Secretary The olive tree with its valuable oil, turned to the worthless, even Ching Bee Gaik the fig tree with its sweet fruit, and troublesome thorn bush. Administrative Secretaries the vine with its clusters that could be This phenomenon is not isolated to Yvonne Chin made into wine – all of them refused imaginary forests. This is true of the Leong Kit Wah the honour. Christian leadership landscape of the Sangan Mutang Administrative Assistants They would each have to sacrifice Church and the nation as well. Sally Tan something in order to reign, and they We desperately need leaders; Jouslly Buaya weren’t prepared to make that sacrifice. everyone recognises it. And yet we have refusal after refusal on the part Executive Advisor 9 .. ‘Should I quit producing the olive oil of good and blessed men. Rev. Wong Kim Kong, j.m.n. that blesses both God and people, just to Too many good men are distracted Editorial wave back and forth over the trees?’ with making money, preoccupied Editor 11 .. the fig tree also refused, saying, with the future, education of children Samuel Ang ‘Should I quit producing my sweet fruit and even, our own church agendas. Assistant Editor just to wave back and forth over the Armchair ‘leaders’ are plenty. Ong Juat Heng trees?’ ‘Consultants’ are also aplenty in almost Address 13 But the grapevine replied, ‘Should I every organisation and church…BUT 32, Jalan SS2/103, quit producing the wine that cheers both they are not providing leadership. 47300 Petaling Jaya God and people, just to wave back and It is so often said that the Church , Malaysia forth over the trees?’ NLT rises or falls with leadership. If the Tel: 603-7727 8227 Fax: 603-7729 1139 able are not willing, bramble tree Email: [email protected],my Finally the trees requested the bramble leaders will fill the void. It’s time for (thorn bush), which has neither fruit the ‘olive, fig and grapevine leaders’ to Printed by Akitiara Corporation nor fragrance, to become their king. rise and take their place. 1&3, Jln TPP1/3, Tmn Perindustrian Puchong Batu12, 47100 Puchong, Selangor 2 Berita NECF September–October 2008 Berita NECF September–October 2008 3 PM urged more inter-faith dialogues But don’t discuss Islam, he said

ore inter-faith dialogues of honour. There, he had also given such forum.” are needed to ensure the his assurance that the government We need also to remember the Mcontinuous harmony among would “not ignore the issues faced by many peace-loving and sensible of different religions, non-Muslims in the country, especially fellow Malaysians in our respective Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Abdullah problems relating to religion and faith” neighbourhoods. We applaud the Badawi said in his speech at the (malaysiainsider.com, Aug 7). forum organisers and the speakers, 25th anniversary of the Malaysian NECF Malaysia Acting Secretary Muslims and non-Muslims alike, for Consultative Council of Buddhism, General Sam Ang lamented the their courage and sincerity to work Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism inconsistencies of our national leaders towards solving the long-drawn and Taoism (MAJLIS – the Malay who did not appear to walk their talk. problems, as well as their willingness acronym) on Aug 6 “The Prime Minister has pledged to share their expertise and knowledge A day later, he charged that matters to listen to all. He has said that we with others. relating to the Islamic faith could not must remain sincere and ready to talk These are among the extraordinary be “touched” or “changed” (NST, and listen. Discouraging such public people to whom Malaysia will one day Aug 7). His remark appeared to have forum is not the way to go, for the be grateful. been exploited to the hilt by the 500 issues have long been swept under the protestors who stormed the Aug 9 carpet,” he held. Continue to pray for: Bar Council public forum organised In any case, can an interfaith 1. God’s grace and mercy upon our to discuss legal issues arising from dialogue happen if issues pertaining to nation; conversion to Islam. The forum had to Islam – one of the faiths concerned – 2. God to liberate us from the be cut short when the demonstration cannot be discussed? communal spirit that has been turned ugly. Conversion of one’s spouse to haunting our nation; Commenting on the demonstra- Islam has been the bone of legal 3. civil maturity and more towering tion, the PM said, “Issues concerning contention for decades. Malaysians who are able to see religion are very sensitive. Matters A non-Muslim has no choice but beyond ethnic and religious (on religion) are already spelt out… to raise the matters relating to Islam differences; there is no need for discussions” when his or her spouse converts 4. selfless, sensible national leaders (Bernama, Aug 12). His comment because it involves the dissolution to lead the nation with justice and was perplexing, considering that five of marriage and custody of children, righteousness; days earlier, he had called for more among other things. 5. independent judiciary and interfaith dialogues at the MAJLIS The plight of mothers such as competent judges to rule with dinner where he was the special guest Subashini and Shamala has become wisdom and without fear or bias; almost legendary. Not to be forgotten and Continued from front cover... is the grieving Hindu family of the 6. genuine police reform: corrupt- late Elangesvaran Benedict whose free, vigilant and impartial. do it; do not fear nor be dismayed, for body was taken away by the Islamic the Lord God – my God – will be with authorities for Muslim burial. Body- Post script: The government has re- you. He will not leave you nor forsake snatching cases continue to occur. activated a joint committee comprising you, until you have finished all the But, in the midst of public syariah and civil lawyers, formed work for the service of the house of despair of ever finding a solution in April, to solve conversion, inter- the Lord.” (1 Chron. 28:20) to all the pain, a streak of light religion and other related issues (The What is the task that God has laid shone when a participant at the Bar Star, Aug 27). on your heart to accomplish? Do not Council forum, , Dr Mehrun Siraj, However, the committee will fear nor be dismayed when the going said, “Open discussion is the way to discuss the issues in chambers and gets rough. He will not leave you nor discuss the issues between Muslims not in open court, said Minister in the forsake you until you have finished it. and non-Muslims.” Words of hope, Prime Minster’s Department Datuk And as you work out God’s calling indeed, from the law lecturer of the Seri . for you, consider this soft power International Islamic University. Days Pray that good measures to resolve approach – the non-coercive way – to after the forum, PAS Research Centre the problems will come out of this do His work. added that they saw “valid reasons for committee.

2 Berita NECF September–October 2008 Berita NECF September–October 2008 3 Helping our youths belong And how to stop the youth drain

hat goes through the minds of Malaysian youths when a larger role in promoting the Tricia Yeoh Wthey ponder the state of the nation? Are they hopeful? same sort of ‘unity’ it prescribes Optimistic? Confident? Or are they in dread and despair? to the Church. Between July and August last year, a quantitative survey was conducted to find answers to these questions and more. 2) National unity is a big load to digest, not just for the Specifically, it aimed to “unearth young Malaysians’ life youths but the adults as well. Can you put the phrase in values, hopes and aspirations for the present and future; a simpler way that is easily grasped? understand (their) attitudes towards and aspirations for national unity in Malaysia, inclusive of racial, religious and In a simpler way, national unity can be understood as different social integration; and to understand (their) attitudes towards community groups – ethnic, religious, socioeconomic, the education system in Malaysia, and how this contributes regional – living together in a state of harmony and peace. positively or negatively to national unity in Malaysia.” This does not mean that each community needs to give up its Called the National Unity Study on Young Malaysians, the respective cultural tradition and practice. The phrase ‘unity in survey covered 1,000 Malaysians aged between 18 and 35 in diversity’ encapsulates this, by showing that each community urban and rural Peninsula Malaysia. It was jointly conducted needs to take pride in his or her individual characteristics that by the Centre for Public Policy Studies (CPPS) of the Asian make up that community. Strategic Leadership Institute (ASLI) and the National Young Lawyers Committee (NYLC) of the Bar Council. 3) Would you agree that a major contributing factor Results of the survey were unveiled this April and among to the weak national unity is the lack of patriotic spirit other things, it indicated increasing racial and religious among our youths, including our Christian youths? polarisation among our youths. Even more worrying is that the younger age group prefers to mix more within their own That is only a partial truth, that there is a lack of patriotic ethnic and religious groups compared with the older age spirit among our youths (and Christian youths). This is only group. an indication of a greater and deeper problem underlying Berita NECF spoke to CPPS Senior Research Analyst our nation. As maintained in our *report’s recommendations, Tricia Yeoh who was at the forefront of the survey. A many (government) policies have been instrumental in Christian, Tricia shared her thoughts on how churches dividing the nation into respective ethnic communities, can help Christian youths gain a sense of belonging to the through economic and education (and other) policies. country and play a more active role in helping to strengthen It is really a systemic problem, and less of a personal national unity. one, where over the last decades, institutional systems have eroded democratic space in Malaysia. The youths especially 1) Do you see the parallel between Malaysian youths were disillusioned and disempowered to change things (this and Malaysian Christian youths? If you had conducted has changed since the elections this year), thereby leading to the survey on our Christian youths, would you have the lack of patriotism in the country. Once youths feel that obtained similar results? they are empowered to alter situations, they will increasingly engage themselves in issues of public interest. Patriotism has I do think that Malaysian Christian youths are generally similar to be tied to how the country treats them in return. to Malaysian youths. It is the entire Malaysian education system that has bred a generation of youths – Christian or 4) How have Christian parents and church leaders affected not – who are largely more comfortable interacting with our youths’ attitude (either positively or negatively) friends of similar ethnic groups. In fact, if there is anything towards national unity? that Christians are more exclusive about is that their religious and church activities isolate them even further from peers of I may be a little critical on this and I hope that Christian different backgrounds. parents and leaders will take this as constructive criticism. The unfortunate trend is that Christian youths eventually Whilst the Church has done an excellent job in teaching mix with people of their own kind without being encouraged biblical values to their youths, I do feel that other aspects to interact with people from vastly different backgrounds. of biblical truths have not been sufficiently focused upon Inter-ethnic and inter-religious interaction should be in affecting Christian youths’ attitudes towards national cultivated from all fronts, and the Church should be playing unity. For example, although Christianity teaches God’s love,

4 Berita NECF September–October 2008 Berita NECF September–October 2008 5 compassion and generosity, the Church could do more in Q. 4). Churches do an excellent job in teaching spirituality educating youths on how they can likewise treat their peers to youths, and this is of utmost importance to build up with love, care and respect, in a non-discriminatory manner. their spiritual foundations from a young age to withstand They should also be encouraged to increase inter- life’s challenges in the future. I do however believe that it ethnic and inter-religious interaction, through dialogue and is becoming increasingly necessary to broaden the scope of conversation and activities. Many times, these activities will ‘church activities’ in their traditional sense of the word. take place outside the church setting – through community The Church still plays a very important role in building projects, working on social issues for the needy. Emphasis up one’s personal relationship with God, and acts as ‘family should also be placed on interaction with people outside and home’ for young Christians. However, justice can only their social and educational classes – the poor, needy and be done to these values if they are practised and executed downtrodden. Youths should also be taught to refrain from outside of the ‘home’. The ‘field’, to borrow Christian jargon, making any negative statements about other religious and is not only out in a third-world country where mission groups cultural practices, as these inherently affect their relationships flock to, but it is right here in Malaysia. with peers of other races and religions. Church leaders could Churches should explore groundbreaking ideas of how certainly do more by encouraging youths to look beyond to encourage youths to unite with their peers, and help their differences and focus on common shared values. youths identify which are the most appropriate places to do so: in their schools, residential community areas, working 5) Following from Q. 4, we often hear about Christian on projects with fellow youths of other faiths to support parents who send their children overseas to study and the poor or other communities like street children, refugees then urging them not to return. How damaging is this to and migrant workers. The Church could perhaps see itself the Malaysian Church and its nation-building efforts? as training ground to teach important spiritual values to the youth, and then thereafter being the coach, guide, mentor, I do understand many Christian parents’ concerns about the for projects that unite them with other youths. These Malaysian education system, and its future career prospects collaborative efforts will not only shine God’s light into the (or lack thereof). I do not judge their decisions to do so, but world, but will teach Christian youths to apply what they the more important question is: What is God’s vision for have intellectually known to society at large. Malaysia is ripe the country, and where can we, as His hands and feet, fit for such dynamic interaction, and I hope the Church is able in? If we strongly believe that the Malaysian Church has a to respond in a timely manner. significant role to play in nation-building, then efforts should The Malaysian Church must caution against the ‘Church’ be channelled to that end. This is a more long-term, forward- merely becoming a place to breed a middle-class apathetic looking model for all Christian parents. For example, young outlook to society, one that is no different from the world in adults could be encouraged to gain experience abroad first, its conscious pursuit of materialism and wealth alone. with the ultimate end goal of returning to contribute to the Again, I return to the question of whether we see nation. ourselves as active participants in the quest towards God’s In this technologically-driven modern society, nation- vision for Malaysia. If God’s vision for humanity at large building can also take place through a number of ways. is for reconciliation – between mankind, between man and For example, those who write prolifically from abroad, nature, and between man and God (reversing the destruction providing technical and intellectual assistance to those who at the Fall) – then the Church must actively pursue this end in are physically based in Malaysia themselves. I therefore don’t Malaysia itself. I truly believe that youths have a tremendous think it’s as clear cut as only being able to contribute to the role to play in this reconciliation process. cause in Malaysia. The more macro question is: Where do Imagine dynamic, active, idealistic, passionate Christian I see myself fitting into nation-building processes, from youths wanting great peace and harmony for the country wherever I am, in whatever capacity I can? through all their available talents: writing, organising workshops, camps, educational talks about current social 6) Someone commented that our churches seem to affairs, bridging the current gap between the Muslims and be working against unity by keeping our youths busy Christians through dialogue, discussion and interaction. with activities that prevent them from interacting The Church is beginning a most interesting journey, along with others outside the church. An example quoted is with Malaysia, and it would be wise to re-evaluate the focus the homeschooling programmes run in churches and of youth programmes and projects. Spirituality is both inside centres that are becoming increasingly popular these and out: spirituality encompasses God’s relationship with us days. Furthermore, churches and Christian organi-sations individually, but it is equally a spiritual affair to promote unity try hard to get them to go to their conferences and other with those outside the Church. activities. Your response, please. * For more information on the report, go to http://www.cpps. I think I’ve answered this in another question above (see org.my/sub_page.aspx?catID=113&ddlID=344

4 Berita NECF September–October 2008 Berita NECF September–October 2008 5 Moving the Church O he world is constantly seeking meaningful relationships and a community that one feels U Taccepted and secure. Communities living in the margins have a higher risk of relationships being strained T at all levels: spousal, families and neighbours. There is a desperate cry for belonging, acceptance and meaning- ful relationships. Thus, when the local Church is able to the Community to live out a community of love and service, it has much to offer its neighbourhood. When the Church shifts its consequence of this approach is that surrounding poor priority from focussing on numerical growth and individual neighbourhoods comprising different ethnic groups is spiritual transformation to transforming relationships excluded from this transformative vision. Thus, the scope that culminates in a church that models a community of of life lived under God’s lordship in love and service to love and which embraces the poor, the Church is able to others outside the Church and care for all that God has transform neighbourhoods. created is diminished. The approach also has the further danger of deepening hostility between races or at least fails Reducing the Great Commission to numerical growth to address the issue of distancing other religious adherents and individual spiritual transformation as it projects a crusader faith bent on winning numbers but Some churches appear to adopt a reductionist approach lacks charity to the needy and disadvantaged. 2 in obeying the Great Commission. The gospel of the Thirdly, the reductionist approach leads to an Kingdom of God is reduced to a message that focuses erroneous assumption that evangelism and conversions primarily on personal salvation. For this brand of church, will automatically bring about just societies. Looking at the call also largely focuses on spiritual transformation but some of the most evangelised nations in Africa and South neglects social transformation. In short, the rich vision America, it is obvious that these countries are struggling of Christian transformation is reduced to a community with a culture of corruption. When vital considerations of spiritual faith which does not meet the social needs of just and ethical values based on loving relationships are of the poor nor does it offer love through practical help dispensed with for the expediency of numerical growth, the and service. This reductionist approach is focused on Church will not become a community of faith and love as conversions and transformation of individual spirituality. God intended it to be. It is not empowered to influence the Individual transformation does not translate into transformation of society into a kingdom of righteousness, empowering the person to be part of a community of faith mercy and justice. to influence transformation in their neighbourhood. The Hence, when the Church puts the Great Commission reductionist approach basically starts with an evangelistic ahead of the greatest commandment, it has lost its programme that reaches out to individuals but neglects the authenticity. The Church is set on a performance mode commitment required to build a community of faith and that contradicts its foundational objective to glorify God love. Some measure of social welfare help is thrown in, but through a community sharing God’s love. A community it is used to draw in individuals to hear the gospel. exalting crusading evangelism and numerical growth The reductionist approach to the Great Commission, over the greatest commandment of love will result in firstly, results in an over-emphasis on individual evangelism shallow relationships and it cannot offer a model of God’s and church effectiveness popularly measured primarily community of faith, love and service. by numerical growth. Such contemporary church planting methods are in danger of over-emphasizing individual Recovering the greatest commandment to build conversions and forgetting the end objective of building communities of faith, love and service a community of faith, love and service.1 This problem of The Great Commission of making disciples of all nations neglecting community care is particularly magnified in poor must be subject to the greatest commandment to love and marginalised communities. God and one another. The Church needs to be clear of Secondly, the reductionist approach fails to appreciate its core vision of mission – social action is just as much an that at the very heart of the gospel, there is the call to important and integral call of the Church as evangelism. build communities of faith, love and service as opposed to individuals of faith built to evangelise others. A ...Continued on next page

6 Berita NECF September–October 2008 Berita NECF September–October 2008 7 Table 1 The outcome is neither of the two, Spiritual Great Commission to Go Approach Greatest Commandment to Love Approach i.e. improved standards of living End point is individual conversion and End point is community transformation and conversions, but a transformed spiritual transformation community of faith, love and service. Focus is on discipleship with strong Focus is on spirituality that enjoins spiritual And this is achieved only through a emphasis on spiritual transformation and transformation to social transformation with little emphasis on social transformation balanced and holistic approach. In Table 1 (beside), I have listed Community outreach uses conversions or Community outreach infuses community presentation of gospel as performance with God’s love and witness as performance some general characteristics of a indicators. This often results in short- indicators. This involves commitment to church vision that is subjected only to term presence that works towards a long-term presence that works towards the Great Commission, and one where conversion and often does not lead towards neighbourhood transformation the Great Commission is grounded on neighbourhood transformation the greatest commandment. Members are trained to evangelise Members are trained to be faithful The failure of the church to witnesses i.e. lifestyle evangelism appreciate the fundamental vision Emphasis is on individual performance Emphasis is on formation of individual of developing a community of faith, measured by ability to bring in conversions spirituality as a lifestyle which leads to love and service will have far reaching and numbers. Personal faith is integrated social action and helping the poor. Personal with family, work, church and missions faith is integrated with all aspects of life, consequences and results in an (more recently, with the marketplace). including socio-economic well-being, inaccurate reflection of the gospel. citizenship and governance Firstly, as the approach is by Ministries are church-focused Ministries incorporate church, community default limited to reaching only and individual lifestyle witness certain individuals and families in the neighbourhood, it makes it difficult noteworthy to see a few churches taking a holistic greatest for the local neighbourhood to participate in this type of commandment to love approach, and having a long-term church. commitment to community transformation that develops a Secondly, it does not work towards the holistic and community of faith, love and action. integrated needs of the neighbourhood, nor often times even of its own members. Its programmes are primarily Footnote designed as a tool (even tuition classes) for converting 1I believe that the rationale of starting cell groups is a positive move individuals but not transforming the neighbourhood. And in the direction of strengthening community. But, it can easily steer sadly, for the poor and marginalised, the good news may be away from its true goal when it replaces its core objective of building personally engaging but socially irrelevant! a community of faith, love and service with evangelism. Hence, cell groups have to keep their vision clear to avoid being side-tracked. Thirdly, mission that is divorced from love and helping the whole person is guaranteed to bring hostility from 2On the other hand, mere social work is also inadequate. It is in adverse religious groups who perceive the Church as this backdrop that more radical models in working with the poor an agent of conversion and as wanting to destroy their are needed. The gospel has to move beyond the either or other culture. This increases the effect of causing further offence categories (personal redemption to transforming society). It cannot and allows extremist groups thereby to incite greater do so through just conversion programmes or social work. The polarisation. answer is not a simplistic one or the other, and it not necessarily even Finally, the spiritual Great Commission approach has in sequential order of the two or the two being done simultaneously the further danger of conveying an implied message that together. The crux is that a group of believers must come together to building a community of God’s love is secondary to the live out a community of faith. They must be committed to empower their community to transform the neighbourhood and to promote Great Commission. Tragically, it is possible to evangelise God’s peaceable kingdom of righteousness. Reaching out and social without loving God or the neighbour. action belong together; so do prayer and service. They all form a web Indeed, the Church which practises only the spiritual of connectedness in building the Kingdom of God. Great Commission approach has little relevance to economic inequities, human dignity, ethnic polarisation, 3A term borrowed from CB Samuel poor governance, corruption and citizenship roles. At the end of the day, such churches have precluded or derailed themselves from achieving the biblical mode of community This is an extract from Kon Onn Sein’s article “Transforming Neighbourhoods: Grounding the Great Commission on the transformation and building a community of God’s love. Greatest Commandment.” The full paper will be published in the Contrarily, the Church with the greatest commandment upcoming NECF Malaysia Forum VI. Onn Sein was Managing to love approach takes a long term view of working Director of the Foundation for Community Studies and towards community transformation. It is there to build a Development, an organisation focussing on poverty alleviation ‘church community in mission’3 with a long-term witness and community development programmes for the poor and and transformative impact in the neighbourhood. It is needy, in particular the Orang Asli and the urban poor.

6 Berita NECF September–October 2008 Berita NECF September–October 2008 7 A Praying Church raying for the nation has become into the disciplines of evangelism Pa key pillar of the church life in and prayer. The theme, “Power Up”, Malaysia, but it took centrestage in July exhorted the children to be fearless and August with various prayer and witnesses for God, and to experience prayer-related events in conjunction the power of intimate prayer. with Merdeka (Independence) Day. Following this was the Churches throughout the country National English Prayer drenched the nation in prayer as Conference attended by individuals, from children to youths over 600 people (see Pr to adults, took up the serious business Dr Chew Weng Chee’s of pleading with the Supreme Ruler to message on pg 9) at end- have mercy on Malaysia. August. Themed “The The Chinese-speaking churches Lord Revives”, it ended had their annual prayer camp up at with the Merdeka prayer Genting Highlands in early July (see rallies all over the country pg 12), followed by the yearly 40-Day on Aug 30 and 31. In the Fast and Prayer which kicked off on Klang Valley, the Aug 30 July 22. prayer rally saw some Next came the National Children 2,000 people coming from Hands up for God – (fr top) Children responding to Prayer Conference in Petaling Jaya in different churches to pray the altar call by speaker Pr Sam Phun (far right) at the National mid-August where over 900 children for God’s peace on the Children Prayer Conference; adults worshipping at the had a hollering time digging deep nation. Klang Valley Prayer Rally.

children’s pastors and workers to meet and discuss issues relating to prayer Youth fill and chart strategies to increase prayer among their children. With the prayer wheels rolling on GAP the sides of the adults and children, there’s still a gap to be filled – that of the youths. On July 19, that gap was filled when some 500 youths and some adults Youths showing respect to the state flags at the from throughout Malaysia gathered in national youth prayer gathering in Kluang. Kluang, Johor, for the country’s first national youth prayer gathering. irst, it was the adults, burdened established last year. Mobilised and organised by the Fby the anxious events sweeping Then, the prayer leaders got the youths themselves, the gathering was the country, who took up the call burden to mobilise the children to a call to our youths to seek God and to pray for the nation. So, we had all pray. Their strategy is simple – fire the pray for the nation, besides establishing the various prayer initiatives, spurred passion while they are still young and and strengthening ties among the by the Merdeka prayer events, taking they will be fervent intercessors for other prayer and youth networks in the place throughout the country. These the rest of their lives. So, the NECF country. initiatives helped break down barriers Malaysia Prayer Commission launched Through the networks, the among churches which saw the need to the annual children’s prayer conference organisers hoped to raise 100,000 come together to pray for the nation. four years ago. From some 200 children passionate praying youths within the As the prayer wind gathered speed, the first year, the number quadrupled to next five years to channel them to be it blew on the hearts of the people to nearly 900 this year as the vision caught directly involved in the 10 pillars of set up a national prayer body that would on among the churches and the prayer nation transformation – education, act as the centre to coordinate, network, flame gathered intensity. health care, business, media, performing and mobilise even more prayer among In addition, there were the regional arts, NGOs, legal, government, family the churches. Thus, the Malaysian Children in Prayer consultations that and church. National Prayer Network (MNPN) was were held throughout the peninsula for ...Continued on page 10

8 Berita NECF September–October 2008 Berita NECF September–October 2008 9 National Prayer Conference “The Lord Revives” Revival for What? This is an extract transcription of Pr Dr Chew Weng Chee’s message at the recent National Prayer Conference held annually in conjunction with Merdeka Day. Pr Chew (right pix) spoke passionately on the purposes of revival and how to achieve it, and made an impassioned plea to senior pastors to take the lead in prayer in their churches.

hy pray? Prayer unleashes the power of God. I see down to the intercessors. You Wthis in history, in the Bible. Prayer precedes revival. have to take the lead, hear from Him. Without prayer, there cannot be revival. History tells us One of the best books I have read on prayer is Pr that. Even in our own country in East Malaysia, the revival Edmund Chan’s book, “Growing deep in God, integrating in Ba Kelalan (Sarawak) in the mid-70s and 80s started theology and prayer”. He says, “Without the power of because schoolboys started to pray, and when schoolboys God, the Church is as powerless as a man armed with a started to pray, God poured forth revival. And the cry rubber band in the face of a charging rhinoceros.” That’s today is, “God, pour forth Your revival.” what prayer-less churches are trying to do. Ephesians 6 says that ultimately, we do not battle The battle is in the heavenlies; it’s not in the way we do against flesh and blood but against principalities and things, the mechanics. It’s not efficiency but efficacy. There power. The battle is in the heavenliness. It is not the size are many ways to work for God but only one way to work of our church or the way we do church. Everything has to with God – through humble and contrite prayers. You do with prayer. Yes, efficiency is important. Effectiveness want revival, you have to pray. is important. But we’ve passed that. We should be going There are so many things happening in this nation, but for efficacy, that is doing the right thing at the right time, the good news is the atmosphere has changed. I tested it in in the right way, to the right people, giving the right result. June when I wrote a letter to a local English daily touching We have to sense what God is doing. on a sensitive issue. I wrote that June 4 was a historical It’s time the church wake up, not even for ourselves date for the US when Barack Obama became the first but for our children. The best time to plant the seed was Afro-American presidential nominee of a major political 30 years ago and we missed it. When I was in Sabah for party in the US. Fifty years after our independence, our 14 years in the late 70s and early 80s, they stopped 1,000 politicians are still arguing and trampling the cause of the bibles from Indonesia at the Customs. The bibles were supremacy of one race over the other in Ketuanan Melayu meant for SIB churches in the interiors. We sent a message (Malay supremacy). No matter how we twist and try to to the West Malaysian (Church) to do something, help us. explain the phrase, it still sounds patronising. Nobody did anything and they made a public bonfire of I wrote, “When can I, an ordinary Malaysian, born and the 1,000 bibles. God is giving us a second chance. Are we bred in this country and know of no other country, ever going to sleep again, to be indifferent again, to guard our see my dream of a Malaysian Malaysia fulfilled.” I had turf again with every church doing her own thing. The no confidence my letter would be published but it was. It best time to plant the seed was 30 years ago. We missed it. shows time has changed. The results of the recent general The next best time is today. election have given me the confidence that I may see this Eph 6:10 exhorts us to be strong. Strength is in the dream fulfilled in my lifetime. finished work of the cross and in the Word of God. Times have changed, and all the more now, we need to Everything has to be anchored in the Word of God. Be understand the signs of times and take the lead. strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Put on the The Church cannot be contemporary but we must be full armour of God but be undergirded by prayer and the prophetic. The difference is this – if we are contemporary, Word of God. we are just playing catching up. When we are prophetic, Having done all this, pray, pray, pray. We have to we take the lead to understand the signs of the times, and continue to pray. If you are too busy to pray, we are discern. We are not to be an echo but to be a voice to the finished. And it is my thesis that prayer has to be anchored nation. by the senior pastor, not the intercessors. Yes they Why pray? Prayer unleashes the power of God for (intercessors) are important, but senior pastors, you have to take the lead. You have to pray and don’t relegate it ...Continued on next page

8 Berita NECF September–October 2008 Berita NECF September–October 2008 9 Continued from previous page... Continued from page 8... revival. The second question is: “Why revival?” The In his message to the youths, Pr Kenneth Chin challenged conventional thinking is that when revival comes, the them to commit to “full-time vocational ministry”, aligning Church will be revived, souls will be saved, miracles will their professions with a missions focus wherever they work. happen and communities changed. That has happened Youth leaders and pastors also shared their vision of raising a through history. My question is: “Is that all?” generation of youths to go into areas of influence in society Revival is only a means to an end, and not an end – such as business, education and law – and to move to live itself. Therefore, what is revival for? Joel 2 says that for in towns where the gospel has yet to make inroads. They your children’s sake, pray, speak up, do something. Let’s wholeheartedly agreed to collectivley work towards raising discard our personal agenda, territorial space. And Joel leaders to go where faith costs the most. said look at the locusts, they have invaded the land, laid The gathering ended with a declaration of God’s love and waste to the vine, fig tree. It’s a symbol of the Church promises to us and our beloved country Malaysia. and Israel. Locusts were a metaphor of evil forces. They Similar gatherings were held in Kulim at the Kulim Wesley have ravaged the land; priests were mourning; and the Methodist Church on Aug 20 and Petaling Jaya (People’s Park productivity of the land destroyed. God laid it upon Joel Baptist Church) on Aug 23. at that time to sound the trumpet and call the elders. Both gatherings rallied youths to have prayerful hearts Look, pastors and leaders if you don’t take the lead, for God and for the nation. The Kulim gathering aimed how can the sheep follow? You got to pray and not just to, among others, initiate a continuous and intense youth talk about the prayer. Take the lead, call the elders and prayer movement in each church in Kulim for revival and sound the trumpet. Men, go back to your churches and evangelisation. The PJ gathering aimed to rouse the PJ inspire the people to cry to the Lord. Don’t stop praying. churches “from their dangerous oblivion and becoming Three postures we need to adopt – wake up, weep and a party to complancency, social and moral decay, and … wail. This is a posture of repentance. Judgement begins embrace nation-building and transformation.” in the house of God and the Church of Jesus Christ in Malaysia got to repent, beginning from us pastors. There’s How to make the Church so much ungodly flesh things happening. Revival has three purposes: more visible 1) Judgement for Israel and the nations. First, HOW can the Malaysian Church increase its judgement begins with the house of God because only a visibility in corporate witness, nation building and cleansed Church can judge the nations. Revival cleanses community development? This is the question the Church so that God can prepare us for judgement (of NECF Malaysia has been mulling over and after the nations). much brainstorming, it has come up with a 2) Warfare – it’s not for the weak, not for the nation-building agenda that will galvanise churches uncommitted, the masses. It’s not the number, but to actively participate in the nation-building process. there’s a war to be fought. Not for churches to enjoy the To help pastors and church leaders understand the goosebumps of revival, and be so comfortable and snug. agenda and vision, NECF leaders will be holding regional God needs people who are watchful, resilient, committed consultations throughout Malaysia. At the consultations, and alert. Revival has already come but it’s not the end. NECF will present four key areas where churches could be God needs us to fight. Will you fight for Jesus? Will you involved in the nation-building transformation process: be counted for Him in the days to come for the survival • Financial (for example, establishing a micro- of this nation? I’m committed, not to build a strong, enterprise company that will work with churches in dynamic church, but to build strong churches everywhere. identifying viable projects to impact the community); Many big churches are weak. It’s not about size; it’s about • Health (for example, helping churches to establish strength and our strength is in the Lord. community clinics or hospitals for the rural poor); 3) Harvest – ultimately God’s concern is that those • Education (for example, helping to educate the who do not know Him will be saved. God’s heart is migrants and the needy); and for the salvation of souls. Evangelism still has to be a • Socio-political (for example, engaging and raising prevailing dynamic in your church. So, it’s not revival for awareness on issues facing Malaysian Christians and revival’s sake. The role of the Church has still to be saving providing pastoral support to Christian politicians). souls, not just community transformation for its sake, but for the lost to be saved. Thus far, NECF has conducted a national consultation There’s work to be done. Inspire your people to pray. with representative pastors from throughout the country. Senior pastors, take the lead. Turn your churches into The next consultation will be in Johore and on houses of prayer because ultimately, the battle belongs to Sept. 18 an Oct. 21 respectively. God. It’s for His glory.

10 Berita Berita NECF NECF September–October September–October 2008 2008 Berita NECF September–October 2008 11 One Hundred Days Sam Ang reflects on his 100 days as NECF Malaysia Acting-Secretary General.

1) What were your initial feelings 5) Reactivated the Evangelism about the great task ahead Commission and planned when you first accepted the COHM 2 so that we can share “We would like to see all responsibility? After 100 days, has God’s love this Dec.; given an opportunity to be involved.” – Sam there been a change? 6) Kicked off the search for a new Secretary-General; Like Paul said in 1 Cor.2:3 “in weakness 7) Consolidated the various prayer in the first 100 days. Essentially, and fear, and with much trembling.” Each rallies for 2009, incorporating the nation building is a long-term process. time when I meet someone in public, Global Day of Prayer and 40-day The next two years is going to be a they would often remark, “You are prayer and fast; and vision-casting and foundation-laying sitting on the hot seat.” It is indeed 8) Planned a National Pastors and season. We would like to see all a hot seat when taking over from Leaders Conference in August given an opportunity to be involved. someone who has been over 10 years 2009 with the theme, “fathering For instance in the area of micro- on the job and has done an excellent the nation” – this is going to be a enterprise, medical and education, work. significant event as we encourage our role is to facilitate churches What NECF Malaysia is today is and recognise spiritual fathers of and individuals to join together in attributed to Rev. Wong Kim Kong the nation to father the nation. undertaking these projects. (former Secretary-General and now I also hope that the staff team Executive Advisor) and the staff. We 2) What do you think you have would strive for efficacy, and stay have grown by leaps and bounds, contributed or have started to relevant with the times. We hope to thanks also to the support from contribute towards the work of build a strong staff team that would the member churches. Without the NECF during this short 100 days? meet the coming challenges, for the NECF Council Members’ support, I next Secretary-General to take NECF would not have dared taken up this I have been blessed to work with a to the next level. responsibility. more proactive executive committee. I Over the last 100 days, it has been don’t see it as “my work” – the new 4) Any other observations/ nothing but hectic. Some of the season before us is going to require comments about these 100 days? things, we have worked on together team effort and partnering with the are: local churches is not an option. I read a commentary about Nehemiah 1) Realigned our focus on the I would like to see the new NECF who was described as a vigorous ‘main thing’ of NECF, that is Council Members play a more active administrator, a calm crisis manager, strategising on ‘transforming the role in the NECF activities and build a fearless initiator, a courageous nation through the local church.’ I better working relationship with staff decision maker, and a persevering believe we are on track in ‘nation and commission members. And as leader. Those qualities propelled building’ and we are working on half of the Council Members are Nehemiah to complete rebuilding the involving the grassroots in nation located outstation, we would like walls in 52 days. building; them to increase the deputation work Our ‘present walls’ may not be 2) Incorporated NECF Samaritan by sharing the NECF work in their obviously broken down, but we are Sdn Bhd to provide micro- respective areas. definitely going through difficult and enterprise services; We encourage them to take the lead trying times. Resources seem limited 3) Explored community projects in the pastors’ fellowships. The NECF and the window of opportunities is inter alia community clinics and Executive Members will be traveling to uncertain. I covet your prayers to have setting up educational centres; get feedback from member churches. the qualities of Nehemiah and also 4) Met key relief organisations to take heed what Jesus said in John to help coordinate training in 3) What do you hope to accomplish 9:4 “As long as it is day, we must do relief work for 2009, so that the within the next two years? the work of him who sent me. …” evangelical church can quickly and I am privileged to do the work, His meaningfully respond to local and I would like to see a strong foundation work … and I invite you to partner overseas crisis; laid for the eight things we initiated with me.

10 Berita NECF September–October 2008 Berita NECF September–October 2008 11 Chinese Prayer Prayer Camp

Commission in Genting Highland. The speakers were Dr Eddie Ma who spoke on renewal and passion for national transformation, and Rev. Wong Kim Kong who shared about the current challenges and opportunities facing the Malaysian Church. In his message on the Church’s role in light of the current political upheaval in the country, Rev. Wong said he believed that God had granted the Malaysian Church Crying for the nation five to 10 years’ grace period to intensify intercession for a genuine reform within the authorities and society, and also to actively pursue God’s Kingdom expansion plans. He Yo ut h s , Arise impressed on the participants the urgency of this period of grace given to the Malaysian Church. Seniors, Cheer Them On Dr Ma conducted a teaching session on intercession and the importance of keeping silence so as to hear God. He his is the generation for our youths to arise and work shared that in Hong Kong, pastors from 18 districts would Tout the ‘visions’ they see. For the older generation, they regularly gather for intercession and during their sessions, must release the youths to do what God has put in their they would listen to God first and then pray. hearts and cheer them on. This is the message participants The camp concluded with a time of ministry which saw at the July Chinese Prayer Camp took home. many participants, young and old, finding healing from Over 200 people, including five Sarawakians, the hurts they suffered from the lack of care from their representing 47 churches attended the three-day pastors and leaders. It was a highly emotional time with annual camp organised by the NECF Malaysia Chinese much weeping that ended with a commitment from the pastors and leaders present to be more caring ‘fathers’ and NECF MALAYSIA WELCOMES ‘mothers’. Reflecting on the camp, NECF Executive Secretary NEW MEMBERS Cheong Tze Ying observed a growing unity among the Chinese-speaking churches and that this annual camp has ORDINARY MEMBERS finally become an event in their church calendars. “I feel Lifeline Church, Perak, pastored by James Willson; Bukit that the walls separating the churches are coming down, and Mertajam Renewal Christian Fellowship,pastored by the camp has inspired the participants to really want to pray Ben Yeap Ee Beng; International Friends and seek God,” she said. Fellowship, represented by Michael Moey; World Deaf Mission Centre, Selangor, represented by Rev. Hahm Kyoung Soo; Hosanna Baptist Church, Penang, represented Donations for Disaster Victims by Ir. Lim Thean Heng; Assembly of Christians, PJ, enerous individuals have, as at Sept 8, given over represented by Ng Kok Hoong; Glory Calvary Church, GUSD47,000 to NECF Malaysia to help victims affected Puchong, pastored by Cheoh Kheng Tuan; Dunamis by Cyclone Nargis in Myanmar and the Sichuan (China) Deliverance Centre, Skudai, pastored by Elijah Maniam; earthquake. Specifically, they donated USD20,000 for the Praise Christian Church, Kuala Lumpur, pastored by Rev. Myanmar victims and USD27,000 for the Sichuan victims. Roger Woon; Antioch Christian Church, Petaling Jaya, pastored by Rebecca Yap Kuy Yong; Harvest Sanctuary, Thus far, NECF has disbursed USD20,000 to three bodies Teluk Intan, pastored by Joshua Ramesh; SIB KL (Chinese), that are directly helping the victims in Myanmar as follows: Petaling Jaya, pastored by Inky Ong; Calvary Charismatic 1. OM Relief work – USD10,000 Centre, JB, pastored by Rev. Benedict Rajan; Masai 2. Purchase of tractors for farmers – USD8,000 Mission Church, Johor, pastored by Charles Sundram; 3. Water Treatment EFC Myanmar – USD2,000 Christ Sanctuary Church, JB, pastored by Francis Ponniah; GGP Outreach Bhd, KL, represented by Edmund Ng; and A total of USD15,000 has been disbursed to a Sichuan local Borneo Evangelical Mission, Miri, represented by Rev. Peter church. NECF is awaiting its contacts in China to advise Pengiran Mutang. which reliable organisations to channel the balance to. Readers will be kept posted on where the ASSOCIATE MEMBERS money is going to and how it is being Pr Abel Benjamin a/l P.P. Selvadurai; Rev. Dr Christopher used. To all the generous givers, Raaja Wilson; Rev. Rosalind Tai Lee Cheng; and Teng Luen we wish the Lord’s favour upon Foong. you.

12 Berita NECF September–October 2008 Berita NECF September–October 2008 13 of religious tensions simmering Book on Religious beneath the veneer of a civilised society. It was in this context that the Liberty in Malaysia NECF Malaysia Religious Liberty his is one book that will challenge readers to Commission held a seminar on Tconsciously and conscientiously seek to be 11 August 2007. Topics addressed informed of the state of religious liberty in the represented critical issues facing country. With a better informed mind, we will the minority religious communities. then be better equipped to pray and make a Paper presenters were drawn from stand for our rights and liberty to practise our the frontline of able and courageous faith. advocates of religious freedom in the The book is a collection of 10 papers present struggle. presented at a consultation on 11 August 2007, The consensus of the papers organised by the NECF Malaysia Religious Liberty published in this volume is clear: Commission. Malaysia is heading down a dangerous and slippery slope Entitled “Religious Liberty after 50 Years of of extremism and intolerance. Serious initiatives are needed Independence”, the consultation was held in conjunction to arrest this trend in order to preserve a harmonious and with Malaysia’s 50th independence. The consultation had peaceful plural society. four aims, including assessing prospects for religious liberty As a post-script, the results of the March 8 general and exploring new social/legal initiatives to strengthen elections surprised every level of the Malaysian society. religious liberty; and informing the public on trends and Among the many interpretations of the election results is current controversies of religious rights and multi-cultural the possibility that Malaysia is entering the phase of a two- politics. party system. This may augur well for the nation. Among Following is an extract from the book’s foreword its positive benefits, a two-party system is more likely penned by the commission chairman, Lee Min Choon. to ensure accountability and professionalism in politics “In the area of religious liberty, the past five years have and government. It may also provide a fertile ground for seen more violations and incidents than the first 45 years human rights to flourish. For the first time in Malaysia’s of the nation’s existence. Critics have attributed these history, there is the exciting prospect that Malaysians to the ineffectiveness and inconsistency of the present have the destiny of the nation in their hands. What we administration of Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Abdullah become depends on us... The Church, as the agent of Badawi. While we do not believe it is his intention to transformation, must be faithful in carrying out what she is oppress religious minorities... his administration and the called to do; even in times of chaos, she will not lose heart. Malaysian society appears to have provided an environment What has happened and is happening are merely the birth for extremist religious elements to proclaim and pursue pangs towards the evolvement of a transformed nation their respective agendas. under God.” The 50th year had the highest incidence of religious liberty issues when names such as Lina Joy, Moorthy and (Note: The book can be purchased at the NECF office, Subashini became household terms. The coining of new Canaanland and SUFES at RM15 a copy. Or order on-line at words, such as body-snatching, demonstrated the existence www.necf.org.my or www.canaanland.com.my)

questions to prod the readers to reflect Famous Bible Characters on their own lives and relationship with God. This hard cover book makes a “One Hundred Bible Characters – People Who Changed good reference book for those who need The World” is a new publication of the Anglican Diocese to get quick information as the characters of West Malaysia authored by Ven. Archdeacon Dr S are arranged in alphabetical order. Batumalai, Vicar of Christ Church, Malacca. Priced at RM30 each, it is available As the title of the book suggests, it features100 Bible from the Council of Churches Malaysia characters from both the Old and New Testament. The (CCM) office at 10 Jalan 11/9, 46200 author gives a brief summary of salient features of the Petaling Jaya. Proceeds from the sale person’s life and his/her character before dishing out more of the book will go towards the CCM detailed information about how he/she dealt with their Building Fund. lives, their interactions with other people and with God. For more information, contact 03- At the end of each character write-up, there are also some 7960 8926 (tel.) or 03-7956 0353 (fax).

12 Berita NECF September–October 2008 Berita NECF September–October 2008 13 to hold concert on grounds that it State coincided with the Merdeka period and religious programmes. However, the cabinet allowed the concert with Spot certain conditions. On the 29th, a Muslim NGO organised a peaceful rally from Masjid Negara to Dataran Mederka in the afternoon, while PAS Youth distributed flyers in the Kuala evening at the stadium to show their a disapproval. Lumpur In June 2007, the then Internal Security banned 37 books titles and publication on Islamic teachings on uala Lumpur (KL), is the capital elections saw the opposition parties, grounds that they contained ‘twisted Kof and the largest city in Malaysia for the first time, dominating the fact’ that could undermine Muslims’ with a population of 1.89 million. majority of the constituencies. Barisan faith. In November, the ministry It houses the Malaysiam Parliament Nasional (BN, formerly Alliance) was banned another seven books fearing on which the country depends for left with only one representative, i.e. they would create confusion and cultural, economic, political and major Federal Territories (FT) Minister anxiety among Muslims and harm transportation needs. Zulhasnan Rafique in the Setiawangsa public peace. In Jan 2008, 11 books In 1952, election was introduced seat. were banned because the contents and it began with the KL municipal deviated from mainstream religious election. The idea of an alliance Religious Overzealousness teaching. Recently in August, two between UMNO and MCA evolved. Last year, Attorney-General Abdul books were banned for giving On 8 Jan, the KL UMNO branch and Gani Patail suggested that the misleading view on Islam. One of the Selangor MCA branch made an country’s legal system be changed the books, ‘Muslim Women and the official announcement that they would to take Islamic legal reference rather Challenge of Islamic Extremism,’ had jointly contest the KL election. They than English common law as its basis been distributed since 2005. won 9 out of 12 seats. When UMNO (Bernama, Aug. 26). and MCA saw the pact as a workable In June, two restaurants (owned Body-snatching formula to gain cross-communal by a Hindu and a Muslim) in Bangsar Last Dec. 30, 54-year-old Wong support,, they moved towards were raided by officers from the Sau Lan died at Hospital Universiti closer cooperation in the pursuit of Department of Islamic Development Kebangsaan Malaysia. Her husband self-government. An Alliance was (JAKIM), DBKL and the Domestic was told that the body would be formalised in Feb. 1953. Trade and Industry Ministry. Religious released only for the purpose of After gaining independence from pictures from both restaurants were performing Christian rituals and the British, KL remained as capital confiscated. must be returned to the FT Islamic through the formation of Malaysia on In June, JAKIM declared the Council for a Muslim burial. A 16 Sept 1963. Celcom SMS contest un-Islamic as certificate of conversion dated Dec. In Oct 1957, the Alliance Party – a it was tantamount to betting, “and 31 stated that Wong converted to coalition of UMNO, MIC and MCA – betting is a form of gambling which is Islam on Dec. 24 at a flat in Cheras. was registered as a political entity. forbidden in Islam” (Bernama, June 18) Finally on Jan. 18, the KL High Court In 1969, racial tension broke out In July, FT PAS Youth presented ordered Wong’s body to be released when the Alliance encountered a major a memorandum to the KL mayor to for Christian funeral after the Islamic setback albeit a simple parliamentary cancel a concert by Inul Daratista, an council retracted its claim that she had majority in the general elections. The Indonesian dangdut singer, because converted to Islam. May 13 incident took place in Kuala her dance movement was ‘too sexy In April, Prime Minister Datuk Lumpur. This resulted in many deaths and immoral.’ Abdullah Badawi (Pak Lah) suggested and led to a state of emergency and In August, FT PAS Youth called a notice-to-convert requirement to suspension of Parliament until 1971 for a ban on Avril Lavigne’s concert. prevent problems caused by disputed and eventually a reform in economic Unity, Culture, Arts and Heritage religious status of a deceased person. policy. Minister Datuk The announcement, lauded by some, The recent March 2008 general subsequently rejected the application was heavily criticised by many.

14 Berita NECF September–October 2008 Berita NECF September–October 2008 15 Conversion, apostasy & intolerance way for various development projects. that Sultan of Perak did not have The Bar Council forum on “Conver- At a meeting on Feb. 14 at DBKL, jurisdiction over civil administration, a sion to Islam: Article 121 (1A) of 20 Hindu temples were identified for remark deemed seditious by UMNO the Federal Constitution, Subashini relocation or demolition to make way politicians. and Shamala Revisited,” held on for various development projects. In April, the Home Ministry Aug. 9, demonstrated not only deep In March, a suit was filed at the refused to renew the publishing permit distrust among religious groups but a Kuala Lumpur High Court against five of Tamil newspaper Makkai Osai for close-mindset on dialogues related to local authority officials for contempt breaching licensing guidelines. The religious matters. of court. Apparently in February, the areas of violation were not specified. The federal government had, authorities had demolished Sri Maja Permit was renewed after an appeal. in its various responses, been too Nageswari Temple in Ampang despite quick to predict the consequence and a court injunction prohibiting them Corruption discourage open dialogues, arousing from doing so. Newly-elected Titiwangsa MP Dr unwanted sentiments among the Recently, the Malaysia Hindu Lo’ Lo’ Ghazali remarked that “… people. Ironically, two days before the Sangam was outraged when temples corruption is synonymous with City forum, Pak Lah had called for more were left out in the KL Draft City Plan Hall (DBKL)” (malaysiakini.com, interfaith dialogues in his address at 2020. It asked if the move was part of 7/4/08). On Sept 3, 15 residents from the MCCBCHST dinner. a hidden agenda to remove religious Medan Damansara lodged a report In response to calls for resolving sites (malaysiakini.com, 21/8/08). with the Anti-Corruption Agency marital problems involving conversion In April 2008, Unity, Culture, Arts against DBKL and its mayor for giving of one party Islam, Minister in the and Heritage Minister Datuk Shafie approval to hill development. A week Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Apdal revealed that the government before the report, a landslide occurred Mohd (who has resigned had planned to streamline the due to soil erosion from the hill (The from the position) said several existing policies on construction and Star, 3/9/08). amendments had been proposed. demolition of places of worship to be Meanwhile the joint committee acceptable to all religious groups. comprising Syariah and civil lawyers formed in April would be reactivated Freedom of expression PRAY to solve inter-religious and other Recently, the Malaysian • For a stop to racial and religious related issues, according to the Communications and Multimedia exploitation by political parties and Minister in charge of Islamic Matters Commission (MCMC) ordered all individuals; in the Prime Minister’s Department, Internet service providers (ISPs) to Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. block Malaysia Today website citing • Clean and transparent civil administration, At the in May, there “insensitive, bordering on just and righteous governance; was a call for an Act on apostasy. incitement” articles as the reason “The questions we need to (the ban has been lifted). • Sensible and fair-minded local authorities clarify are whether permission can Under the Multimedia Super and religious bodies which uphold freedom be given for a Muslim to renounce Corridor’s10-Point Bill of of religion for all and respect all religions; Islam, how to stop Muslims from Guarantees, the Government has • The people to respect one another, are becoming an apostate, the issue of promised to “ensure no Internet open-minded and willing to dialogue, faith rehabilitation and the status of a censorship.” do not easily succumb to the agenda Muslim convert who wish to return to Earlier in July, Catholic weekly of unscrupulous politicians or religious his (or her) original religion,” said Dr Herald and Catholic Asian News extremists; and Mohd Puad Zarkashi, a BN member received show-cause letters from of Parliament from Batu Pahat (theSun, the Home Ministry for reporting • Against the spirit behind materialism, 6/5/08). There is no provision in the political issues on Anwar extremism and apathy. Federal Territories Islamic laws to Ibrahim. Publications Control convert out of Islam, nor is there any and Al-Quran Texts Unit senior • The Church: to be salt and light, Christlike in all our ways, bearing witness and stipulation for apostasy. officer Che Din Yusof claimed presenting ourselves as role models in the they had violated permit society for the sake of God’s glory; unity of Places of worship conditions. all churches, particularly the larger and more In February 2007, KL City Hall In May, Pak Lah called on self-sufficient churches. (DBKL) identified 20 Hindu temples the authorities to take action for relocation or demolition to make against Karpal Singh for saying

14 Berita NECF September–October 2008 Berita NECF September–October 2008 15 Looking Lookingout up “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my India In 1969 a Hindutva (Hindu government appears paralysed. nationalist) proselytiser named Swami Please pray: • for God’s ways,” declares the Lord. “As the Laxmanananda Saraswati established intervention; God to use the shame heavens are higher than the earth, so an Ashram (Hindu religious centre) of this violence to trigger a national are my ways higher than your ways in Kandhamal district, Orissa state, awakening in India; and • that the and my thoughts higher than your north-east India, and committed present troubles provide the Church thoughts.’ Isaiah 55:8–9 himself to countering the work of with an opportunity to share and Christian missionaries. He never explain the gospel in ways previously hearts be turned towards ‘truth, succeeded in stopping conversions to unattainable. justice and charity’ for the Church and Christianity but, with state government Pray too for God to be a shield ultimately the blessing of the nation support, he has turned Orissa into a around His children, protecting them and the glory of God; •Holy Spirit tinderbox of communal tension. from violence and intervening to bring to work mightily within His Church, On 23 August, Saraswati was it to an end, pushing back the enemy; strengthening the body with faith and ambushed and shot dead. From the and • the 50,000 displaced Christians unity in preparation for days of liberty; evidence, his death was a targeted to find a unity previously unknown; and •all the priests and bishops, as well assassination by a group of Maoist may the Church emerge from this as Christian writers and lawyers who guerrillas who are natural enemies fire in solidarity, brotherly love and are imprisoned or under surveillance: of the caste-perpetuating right-wing faith in Jesus Christ as the Holy Spirit may the Lord be their shield and Hindu nationalists. forges Christian unity across race, strength and comfort. Despite this, Hindu leaders in caste and denomination. Orissa publicly charged the Christian China For almost 60 years community with killing Saraswati Vietnam Catholics and they’ve heard the story that they did because of his anti-conversion Protestants in Vietnam have long not need religion because the (Chinese campaign. A violent Hindu pogrom sought the return of properties seized Communist) Party will fill all their erupted and continues to rage and by the Communist Party. For years the needs. That’s not there anymore. The now engulfs nine districts, indicating Church has petitioned the government Chinese are turning to religion because a high level of VHP (Hindu World to no avail. Occasionally there is there’s an emptiness inside.” – English Council) orchestration. Tensions are minimal appeasement, but eventually teacher Ann Wilson, who went to especially high in Mangalore where the confiscation and demolition China 20 years ago and, along with there has also been rioting. Militants resume. Now a spirit of prayer has her husband David, runs a network of have promised more attacks and the gripped the Vietnamese Church. Christian teachers called Volunteers BJP state government is launching an In March, the Evangelical Church for China. investigation into organisations that of Vietnam (South) petitioned ‘The Although the Beijing Olympics use foreign funds to allegedly forcibly Church of God Everywhere’ to has caused much of the world to convert Hindus to Christianity. support them in prayer for their 265 acknowledge China’s economic The situation is extremely serious. confiscated properties. progress, China Aid Association, More than 50 Christians have been Meanwhile, Catholics in their an organisation dedicated to killed and multitudes have been raped, thousands, led by their priests, bishops persecuted believers in China, has bashed, burned and slashed. Some and the Archbishop of Hanoi, have revealed documentation showing 50,000 Christians are displaced. Even been gathering at various seized the government forced local pastors the relief camps are being attacked properties to pray. These massive to sign an agreement to shut down but, praise God, two attempts to non-stop prayer vigil-protests have services and meetings for a three- poison their water supplies have been the government seriously rattled and a month period surrounding the games. thwarted. watershed moment looms. Will there (worldnetdaily.com, 13 Aug.) The Furthermore, anti-Christian be victory or violence? reason for the government’s action is violence is now erupting in other Please pray for: • God, in answer not known. In any case, human beings’ states. Churches have been torched to the prayers of many, to infiltrate longing to know God is ingrained inPrayer Madhya points: Pradesh and Karnataka and enlighten the hearts and minds of within their hearts and no religion ban while nuns from Mother Teresa’s the Vietnamese masses, particularly can ever douse that longing. Missionaries of Charity were violently those with influence (like the media) Continue to pray that those who assaulted in Chhattisgarh. The central and those in authority: may their seek God will be found by Him.

16 Berita NECF September–October 2008