http://www.necf.org.my/html/berita_f.htm PP5872/12/2006 JULY–AUGUST 2006

EDITORIAL

“The world has a memory of only 100 days.”

n Aug 31, 1983, the Russians condominium-cum-office block shot down a Korean Airlines under construction at Jalan Sri Ocommerical flight that had Hartamas, Kuala Lumpur. veered off-course into Soviet airspace. More recently, the Ulu Klang All 269 souls on-board perished. The landslide claimed four lives and Russians refused to explain what really swept away several longhouses. In quick happened. When asked why, they replied response, the Government ordered

that the world had a memory of only have dominated the news. How do we 100 days. Within 100 days, they said, see through all these and make an impact something else would happen and in our nation? everyone’s attention would be turned to the latest issue. And they were right. Discern the times Does this sound familiar? A lot of (Jesus) said to the crowd: “When you see a cloud things have been happening in our nation. rising in the west, immediately you say, ‘It’s going Each time disaster strikes, there is strong to rain,’ and it does. And when the south wind reaction. For example, the nation was blows, you say, ‘It’s going to be hot,’ and it is. stunned when corporate figure Dr. Liew Hypocrites! You know how to interpret the Boon-Horng was killed when a two- probes and passed new laws. Whether appearance of the earth and the sky. How is it tonne iron mould fell on his car from a they are doing enough is not the issue that you don’t know how to interpret this present here. What is important is the public’s, time?” (Luke 12:54–56) INSIDE and especially the Christians’, attitude Where is our nation heading? What THIS ISSUE towards these events. Do we just vent are the signs pointing to? There are many our anger and disappointment in the heat issues out there, but not all of them are • Shamala Specifics...... 3 of the moment and then let the issue pass equally important. into obscurity? How long is our The religious liberty issue is a crucial • Aye to Article 11...... 4 memory? one with long-term implications. One • Vote for Continuity ...... 5 Christians are called to make a high-profile case is the Lina Joy court case. difference. We are not just citizens of Lina, a Christian convert from Islam, had • Foundation Update...... 6 Malaysia. We are citizens of heaven (Phil. applied to have the word “Islam” deleted 3:20), called to be salt of the earth and from her identity card. The National • What’s Up Youths?...... 8 light of our Father’s world. Registration Department refused to allow • Adoption – Doing It Right But in the midst of so many issues the application and wanted her to ...... 11 and controversies, where do we begin? produce a declaration from the Syariah Lately, the controversies over the Court that she was no longer a Muslim • State Spot – Johore...... 14 “crooked bridge”, APs, Proton, the “indecency” definition, and many others • SEE PAGE 3 NECF MALAYSIA COUNCIL From The Chairman Rev. Eu Hong Seng Chairman Rev. Eu Hong Seng Vice-Chairman Elder Kong Yeng Phooi Let’s begin with Honorary Secretary Mr Samuel Ang Honorary Treasurer Dr Khoo Kay Hup holiness Committee Members Rev. Justin Wan thank the Lord for the honour absenteeism’ from honouring God on Rev. Dexter Low and privilege to serve in NECF Sundays, ‘itching ears’, proliferation of Rev. Ng Kok Kee Malaysia as Chairman. I am also ‘other gospels’ and the increasing Rev. Foo Moy Peng Rev. Lim Soon Hock very thankful for the foundation availability of pornographic materials. Rev. Simon Chandran laid by my predecessors, Mr There is a rise of the same spirit of Pr Tay Wah Seng IDavid Boler and Rev. Datuk Prince laxity, compromise and unholiness of Elder Chua Keng Seng Guneratnam during their tenure as Nadab and Abihu in their service to Mrs Grace Hee Chairman, for we cannot begin to be God, which got them killed in God’s Advisor effective in nation building without a solid presence in Leviticus 10. Elder David Boler, K.M.N. Rev. Datuk Prince Guneratnam foundation. All these forms of uncleanness will Today, we are living in very challenging chip away our effectiveness and NECF MALAYSIA STAFF and transitional times, both for this nation testimony. Secretary-General and for the Church – for it is the end- There is so much to do, and the Rev. Wong Kim Kong, J.M.N. time hour. danger is to rush out to do it without Executive Secretaries Ann Low (Prayer) On one hand, it has been a season of due regard to the Lord’s yardstick of Kathryn Tan (Finance) growth for the Church where we have holiness. At the end of the day, we may Patrick Cheng (Leadership seen more and more Christian leaders look like ‘heroes’, but would we be holy? Development ) emerging and churches being planted. At Without holiness, there will be very Lim Siew Foong (Research) the same time, disasters loom over the little fruit in everything we do. Ngeh Hoong Eng (Chinese) world and conflicts erupt worldwide Without holiness, suspicion and Alfred Tais (Bahasa Malaysia) Ong Juat Heng (Communications) with ever-increasing frequency. disunity will creep in. Tham Sing Kheong (Administration) Locally, we brace ourselves for bigger Without holiness, God will not release Rev. Lai Moo Him (Special Projects & and more unsettled times ahead with the His resources. When there is lack, we do Church Relations) Lina Joy court case, the constitutional crisis not have a financial problem; we have a Sandy Tan (Secretary-General’s Office) spilling forth and where the Government spiritual problem. Confidential Secretary of the day is being “unusually questioned” JC Ryle said, “Holiness is written on Ching Bee Gaik Administrative Secretaries by the former premier. everything in heaven…”. Yvonne Chin But we have been called for such a My prayer is that this would be true Sangan Mutang time as this, and the challenge is to move of everything NECF does. My Administrative Assistants forward – to grow, to advance, to be a encouragement to all members is that Jouslly Buaya light unto this nation. we serve and sacrifice in such a manner EDITORIAL And how may we achieve that? as to be found by Him without spot or Editor In the morning of the BGM itself blemish, as admonished by Apostle Peter. Rev. Wong Kim Kong, J.M.N. on May 20, God spoke to me in my I look forward to working together Assistant Editor & Writer quiet time from 1 Peter 1:16, “because with all members of NECF towards Ong Juat Heng it is written, “Be Holy, for I am holy.”. achieving greater unity in the Lord’s ADDRESS I sense that the first order of the day church and growth for our Lord’s 32, Jalan SS2/103, is holiness. kingdom in this nation. 47300 Petaling Jaya Selangor, Malaysia Our fullest experience of God will Tel: 603-7727 8227 only come when our lives are holy and Excited about the future, Fax: 603-7729 1139 our hearts are pure. E-mail: [email protected] The enemies of holiness are just too Printed by Akitiara Corporation 1 & 3, Jln TPP1/3, Tmn Industri Puchong many. We see the rise in uncleanness in Batu 12, 47100 Puchong, Selangor many forms, such as ‘acceptable

2• Berita NECF JULY – AUGUST 2006 and filed an application for declaration that it was null and void. Shamala Specifics The HC ruled that it had no jurisdiction to hear the case as the matter was within the purview of the Syariah Court (SC). Do you remember? Shamala’s application was dismissed with costs. She is appealing against this decision to the Court of Appeal. IT was the S. Shamala court case that initiated the Article 11 group (see next page). Her unfortunate story and the courts’
Shamala had filed an application for custody of the two judgements (both civil and Syariah) sent shock waves and clearly children in the HC. The HC judge granted an interim custody exposed the dilemma of the dual-legal system in the country. order giving her custody of the children and Dr Jeyaganesh But do you remember her grievances? Specifically, she and right of access. In the meantime, Dr Jeyaganesh obtained a SC her estranged husband, Dr Jeyaganesh C. Mogarajah (Hadanah) custody order. He then used the HC order to gain (Muhammad Ridzwan) have filed five appeals (all relating to access to the children. Once the children were with him, he their children) at the Court of Appeal. At press time, the court sought to rely on the SC order and refused to return the children. was still hearing the appeals. Shamala cited him for contempt of the interim HC order. He argued that the SC order prevailed over the civil court
Shamala’s children, aged 4 and 2, were converted to Islam order. The HC did not accept his argument and cited him for by Dr Jeyaganesh. Shamala contended at the High Court (HC) contempt. Dr Jeyaganesh is appealing against this decision. in 2004 that she had no knowledge of the children’s conversion • SEE PAGE 6

•FROM FRONT COVER calling for our lives. will we make? Some of us are (which was called to preach Define the boundaries impossible to obtain). the Gospel. That It is said that before someone can do Lina took her case is a high calling. things, there must be things he or she will to the High Court Some of us may not do. Many people started out with and lost. She appealed be called to good intentions and noble goals, yet they and the case was address socio- failed miserably in the end. One key factor recently heard by the political issues. That was the lack of clear boundaries. While Federal Court on June 28 and 29 is an equally high the end goal is important, it does not and July 3. The judgement is pending. Will calling. justify any and every means to achieve it. Lina finally get her wish? Think of the Whatever we are called to, we need The Bible teaches us to obey the precedent that the judges’ decision will to persevere in it. Government and the authorities (Rom. set for the 26 million citizens in this William Wilberforce decided at a 13:1, 1 Pet. 2:13, Tit. 3:1). That does not country. young age that God had called him to mean we cannot oppose unjust Lina Joy is not the only one fighting fight for the rights and liberties of the government policies. But if and when we for her religious rights. Have we forgotten slaves. In 1788, as a British member of do oppose any government policy, our S. Shamala or S. Kaliamal (wife of the parliament, he introduced his first anti- actions must not be seen as defiance. late M. Moorthy)? Can we remember slave trade motion in the House of Instead, we are to maintain objectivity no their specific grievances? When a meeting Commons. matter how emotionally charged the of the Article 11 Forum held at a hotel in The motion was defeated. Wilberforce atmosphere is. We are to help others Penang was disrupted by an angry mob, did not give up but brought up the remain calm, instead of inciting their did we just shake our heads and forget matter every year for the next 18 years emotions to support our cause. And we the incident? How long is our memory? until the slave trade was finally abolished should never get personal, as personal The religious liberty issue is not the in 1806. He did not stop there but attacks lead nowhere. only one that is important. There are pursued his campaign against slavery itself. Knowing precisely what we are others and we need to learn to, in Jesus’ Finally, just four days before his death on advocating prevents us from getting words, “interpret this present time”. July 29, 1833, the bill for the abolition of sidetracked. all slavery in British territories was passed. So, how long is our memory? Are Decide the course Eight hundred thousand slaves were set we mirrors that merely reflect light when One of the most important things in life free. the metal is hot, or are we candles that is to know what we want to achieve, and Wilberforce remembered the slaves give light through the giving of ourselves? to know it as specifically as possible. It is for 46 years. He made a difference. How May the Lord speak to each one of us essential that we seek the Lord on His long is our memory, and what difference regarding His calling for our lives.

JULY – AUGUST 2006 Berita NECF •3 Contrary to accusations from accused the organiser of challenging the certain quarters, the group was not Syariah and protested the formation of set up to undermine the the Interfaith Commission, which was special position of Islam as completely unrelated to the forum. enshrined in Article 3(1) Malaysians are concerned about the of the Federal strong influence of Islam, advocated by Constitution. Neither certain quarters, that has been was it to challenge the encroaching into our daily lives for some Syariah as family and years now. personal laws of those This influence is evident in, for professing Islam example, the civil courts’ refusal to pertaining to items exercise their jurisdiction on cases relating listed in the 9th to freedom of religion and Islam Schedule of List II Hadhari’s role in the Government’s Ninth of the same Malaysia Plan. Constitution. (Page 9 of the 9MP states: “Islam Its purpose was simply to reaffirm Hadhari was introduced in 2004 as a ARTICLE 11 the supremacy of the Federal Constitution comprehensive and universal is a coalition of NGOs, which was (Article 4) and to reiterate the fundamental development framework for the nation. formed after the High Court’s judgement right of all Malaysian citizens to equality The framework was formulated as an on the S. Shamala case in 2004. In the before the law (Article 8), and therefore, approach that enjoins progress and highly-publicised case, Shamala failed to all have access to legal remedy. advancement as an imperative for the nullify her two children’s conversion to Article 11 also calls for restoration of people, while being rooted in the universal Islam, which was secretly done without judiciary to its original position in the values and injunctions of Islam”.) her consent by her husband who had Constitution as was the case before 1988. The Islamic trend is also expressed in earlier converted to Islam. That means vesting the judicial power of the religiosity of the local authorities, and The civil court had reasoned it had the Federation into the civil high courts. the civil service departments’ unconscious no jurisdiction over the case as the Article 11 has thus far held two acceptance of Malaysia as an Islamic state children were already Muslims and the forums, one in Petaling Jaya and another due to the constant proclamation of correctness or otherwise of their in Malacca, to educate Malaysians on their Malaysia as one. conversion was a matter for the Syariah rights. Forum speakers discussed the Some have argued that since the Court. Shamala’s case brought home the Former Lord President Tun Salleh Abas... remarked that the religion of point that the constitutional role of the Islam in Article 3 was meant only for the purpose of rituals and ceremonies, civil High Court as the protector of the rights of the ordinary citizen was fast and it was never intended to extend the application of Syariah to the sphere becoming illusory. of public law. The implications of this case became a rallying force that drew together parameter of citizens’ legal and Federal Constitution recognises Islam as concerned NGOs and members of civil constitutional rights as well as the dilemma the official religion, therefore Syariah society, thus giving birth to Article 11. created by the dual-legal system (civil and should be the underlying principle of all Currently, Article 11 comprises 13 syariah) involving cases such as Shamala’s civil laws. non-governmental organisations children’s custody, the death of M. This may have led the Attorney- representing women’s concerns, human Moorthy, and Lina Joy’s application to General’s Chambers to set up an in-house rights, lawyers and various religious delete the word ‘Islam’ from her identity Syariah unit whose functions are to “take groups including the Malaysian card. steps toward the realisation of a set of Consultative Council of Buddhishm, Entitled ‘Federal Constitution: A laws and specific body that will be Christianity, Hinduism and Sikhism (of Protection for All’, the two forums were responsible for the harmonisation of civil which NECF Malaysia is a member of held peacefully. However, the coalition law and syarak (the laws of Islam)” through Christian Federation of was not so fortunate when it held the (Source: Attorney General’s website: Malaysia). Sisters in Islam and the forum in Penang on May 14 when a www.agc.gov.my) Women’s Aid Organisation are the crowd of 500 angry protestors Many believe that this increasing group’s joint secretariats. demonstrated outside the venue. They • SEE NEXT PAGE

4• Berita NECF JULY – AUGUST 2006 Three Tasks Vote for continuity The newly-elected council immediately got off to work after ALL council members of NECF Malaysia of the previous the BGM. At its first meeting four days thereafter, the council term have been re-elected uncontested at the recent NECF listed three major tasks to tackle in a 10-year plan. biennial general election with a new exco line-up and a new The three tasks are: a transition plan to groom new leaders ouncil member – Rev. Simon Chandran. The council will for the NECF council leadership; a 10-year Nation-Building serve a two-year term with immediate effect.. Policy; and a “touch-base programme” with the NECF The following are the new exco members: members. “We need to identify and train younger national Chairman : Rev. Eu Hong Seng (FGT, Petaling Jaya) leaders to take our place in the council,” Rev. Eu said in Vice-Chairman : Elder Kong Yeng Phooi (PJ Gospel reference to the first task. Hall, Petaling Jaya) As for the nation-building policy, he said the council will Hon. Secretary : Mr Samuel Ang (PJEFC) be studying the possibility of formulating a policy that will Hon. Treasurer : Dr Khoo Kay Hup (Full Gospel enable NECF to be proactively involved in shaping the nation. Assembly, Kuala Lumpur) “We need to communicate that we are not just into soul winning. We need a social vision - to eradicate poverty, build Nine members (out of 12 who contested) were elected schools and hospitals; simply put, touching the nation through into the council. They are: meeting needs,” Rev. Eu explained. • Rev. Justin Wan (SIB Sarawak) On touching base with the members, he said the council • Rev. Dexter Low (Latter Rain Church) members plan to travel to the various regions to meet with • Rev. Ng Kok Kee (Assemblies of God, Malaysia) members. • Rev. Foo Moy Ping (Jubilee Initiatives Malaysia) Rev. Eu has been a member of the NECF Council since • Rev. Lim Soon Hock (Georgetown Baptist Church, Penang) its formation 25 years ago and has been the vice-chairman • Rev. Simon Chandran (Emmanuel Christian Assembly, Taiping) for the last 12 years. The senior pastor of Full Gospel • Pr Tay Wah Seng (The Vineyard, Johore) Tabernacle, Petaling Jaya, observed that over the years, the • Elder Chua Keng Seng (Logos Presbyterian Church, Petaling Church has come to a place of oneness, unity and respect. Jaya) “The evangelical churches are in a place of maturity. The • Mrs Grace Hee (New Life Restoration Centre, Petaling Jaya) time for nation building is ripe. My predecessors, Mr David In his chairman’s address at the start of the meeting, Rev. Boler and Datuk Prince Guneratnam, have laid a good Datuk Prince Guneratnam expressed gratitude to God for foundation for nation building” he said. guiding him during his 12-year tenure as chairman, and However, there will be no real unity and power for ministry thanked the council members, NECF staff and all NECF if churches do not remain holy, he cautioned. “Without members for their partnership in the ministry. holiness we cannot begin to do anything significant for God Following his address, the meeting recorded its because His presence won’t be with us. We have to ensure appreciation to Rev. Guneratnam for his years of service. He our lifestyles reflect Christ so that when people see us, they continues his service in NECF as advisor. see Christ,” he stressed.

• FROM PREVIOUS PAGE:AYE TO ARTICLE 11 Constitution which would have the effect the Federal Constitution (FC). To pressure to follow religious laws is the that any law contrary to the junction of date, it has collected over 20,000 result of political parties striving to Islam would be void,” he said. signatures, which have been submitted to prove their Islamic credentials. In other words, the Federal the Prime Minister. Former Lord President Tun Salleh Constitution was never intended to raise The ongoing petition draws urgent Abas, in ruling the case of Che Omar Islamic law above civil law. attention to fears that constitutional rights bin Che Soh v. Public Prosecutor (1988) No doubt, “Islam is the religion of are steadily being undermined by after reviewing Malaysia’s constitutional the Federation” as stated (Article 3), but executive and legislative decisions. history, remarked that the religion of it is not the basic law of the land. The petition reminds parliamentarians, Islam in Article 3 was meant only for the However, recognising that Malaysia, as a cabinet ministers and judges to honour purpose of rituals and ceremonies, and hybrid state, is neither strictly secular nor their oath of office in defending the FC it was never intended to extend the ‘un-islamic’, it can be best described as a , to reaffirm the country’s secular nature application of Syariah to the sphere of Muslim country because the majority of and to ensure judicial independence. public law. our citizens are Muslims. The petition is online at “If it had been otherwise, there would The coalition has initiated a signature www.petitionline.com/constsup/ have been another provision in the campaign to reaffirm the supremacy of petition.html

JULY – AUGUST 2006 Berita NECF •5 • FROM PAGE 3: SHAMALA SPECIFICS
Shamala filed an application for custody of the children in
Dr Jeyaganesh commenced a SC proceeding against Shamala the HC. Dr Jeyaganesh’s counsel raised a preliminary objection for custody of the children. Shamala did not attend the SC on stating that since the defendant (Dr Jeyaganesh) had converted the basis that she being a non-Muslim was not bound by the SC and the children were converted, therefore the Civil Courts jurisdiction. The SC issued a warrant of arrest against Shamala. have no jurisdiction to hear this matter. However, the HC Shamala made an application in the HC for an order that the dismissed the preliminary objection and heard Shamala’s warrant of arrest issued by the SC is not binding on her as she application for custody. is a non-Muslim. The HC allowed Shamala’s application. Dr Jeyaganesh is appealing against this decision. Dr Jeyaganesh is appealing against this decision. CONCLUSION:
Shamala filed an application for custody of the children. The cruxes of the appeals are:- The HC granted her joint custody of the children with a caveat • whether one parent can unilaterally convert the children that the children should not be taught to eat pork and should of the marriage to Islam without the knowledge and consent not practice the Hindu faith. If this caveat is breached, she will of the other parent. lose custody of the children. Dr Jeyaganesh is appealing against • whether a non-Muslim parent, whose children have been this decision as he feels that he should be given sole custody converted to Islam, may file a suit in the Civil Court challenging since the children are Muslim. the conversion of the children. Do the Civil Courts have the Shamala has filed a cross appeal against this decision jurisdiction to hear this matter? on the basis that as a mother with children below seven, she is • whether a Syariah Court can issue a warrant of arrest entitled custody of the children. against a non-Muslim for non-attendance at the Syariah Court.

Dong’s Surgical Specialist Clinic NECF Foundation Update Mahkota Medical Centre THE NECF Foundation is a welfare Of the total, four are still getting aid Free consultation. ministry that provides financial aid to full- subject to annual review. Total amount time workers attached to local churches approved for disbursement is over IPOH and Christian organisations. RM170,000. • Dr Teoh Soong Kee (O & G) Since NECF Malaysia launched the Breakdown of the aid given: Ipoh Specialist Centre / Perak ministry two years ago, the foundation • Interest-free education loan – 9 Community Specialist Hospital Ipoh has approved over RM170,000 in recipients (RM104,300); Free consultation donation and interest-free loans. • Medical (donation) – 4 recipients • Dr Yoong Fook Ngian (ENT) The foundation has also established a (RM19,500); and Suite 8, Ipoh Specialist Centre panel of professionals who provide their • Welfare (donation) – 2 recipients Free consultation for two patients per services to full-time workers free of (RM16,875). month. charge or at special rates. NECF is • Dr Lam Fook Shin (Consultant Eye PANEL OF PROFESSIONALS continually on the lookout for Surgeon) professionals to join the panel. MEDICAL SERVICES Ipoh Specialist Centre Last year, the foundation initiated a MELAKA Free consultation for ten patients per group insurance scheme underwritten by • Dr Au Mun Kit (Eye Surgeon) month Great Eastern (GE). The scheme is Hospital Pantai Ayer Keroh • Dr C. S. Koh (Cardiologist/ targeted at full-time workers, but to fulfil Free consultation for three patients per Physician) the minimum number for the scheme to month Suite 8, Perak Community Specialist take off, the foundation extended the • Dr Lim Boon Aik (Cardiologist/ Hospital scheme to Christians who are attending Physician) Free consultation NECF member churches. Mahkota Medical Centre • Dr Ting Cheh Sing (General Surgery) NECF is given a two percent-rebate Free consultation, medicine from clinic (1) Suite 10, Ipoh Specialist Centre, of all premiums collected and the money at cost (2) 19-21, Jalan Kampar, Ipoh is used to help full-time workers who • Dr Lau Yoke Phan (Female Free consultation cannot afford to pay the full premium. Paediatrician) • Dr Adeline Tan Ai Lin (Paediatrician) Lau Child Specialist Clinic Kilnik Kanak Kanak David Financial Aid Given Free consultation Ipoh Specialist Centre Since May 2004, 15 people have received • Dr Ding Choo Chang (General Free consultation financial assistance from the foundation. Surgery) • SEE NEXT PAGE

6• Berita NECF JULY – AUGUST 2006 Sunway Scholarships Spiritual Healthcheck via Malaysian Care THE NECF Research Commission has individual members and the predominant MANY young people from poor initiated a survey to identify variables in spiritual typology of the congregation; communities lack the academic spiritual development that contribute • Identifying strengths and qualification to secure jobs that will significantly to spiritual formation. opportunities; provide them a better life. Even those Churches that participate in the • Suggesting ways to care for the who have the opportunity to further “Christian Spiritual Formation” survey – unmet spiritual needs of members, such their education are unable to for lack by getting their members to fill in the as counselling and coping methods in of funds. questionnaires – will be able to gauge the adverse circumstances; Sunway University College is level of spiritual maturity of their • Helping members to reflect on their offering a rare opportunity to the poor congregation. Hence, the survey will theological understanding of spiritual community through a scholarship greatly benefit the leaders in long-range growth and maintain necessary programme, which includes full tuition planning. psychological adjustments in stressful fees, hostel accommodation and book The survey is one of the projects events; and vouchers. under the commission’s two-year study • Helping members to understand Each year, the college gives out on “The Spiritual Healthcheck of the one another as unique individuals, and eight scholarships to students – aged State of the Church in Malaysia” (the contribute to the group’s well-being. 18 to 25 years who have completed theme of the study). Samples of the questionnaires the SPM/STPM examinations – Specifically, the survey data collected together with reply forms have been sent recommended by Malaysian Care. will help provide prescriptive out to NECF members. The response The courses that are offered information for effective counselling of has been encouraging, with some churches through this scholarship are IT, their members by: asking for several hundreds of Telecommunications & Multimedia, • Identifying the spiritual style of questionnaires for their members. Hospitality, Tourism & Retail Management, Professional Accounting Survey on kampung churches Program (CAT) and Professional THE Chinese Commission has sent out long-term plan to empower village Business Programs. questionnaires to about 500 churches in churches with training and practical help. Interested candidates should the rural areas (defined as places without The survey will cover the nation contact Esther Alfred of Malaysian town councils) throughout Malaysia in its including Sabah and Sarawak but for this CARE at 03-90582102 ext.108; or e- first survey on kampung (village) churches. year, the commission will focus their mail [email protected]; or The survey hopes to identify the needs efforts on empowering village churches check out its website – material or otherwise – of village in the peninsular east coast – Pahang, www.mcare.org.my churches, to help the commission in its Kelantan and Terengganu.

• FROM PREVIOUS PAGE “When there seemed no way, God made a way – LEGAL SERVICES Testimony through the NECF Foundation” IPOH After completing my Diploma in Computer Science, I was desperately • Mr Chun Chee Chun scouring for a loan to complete my degree. Thanks to a loan from the C.C. Chun & Co. Advocates & Solicitors NECF Foundation, I completed my Bachelor’s degree at the University • Dato’ Daniel Tay of Nottingham (local campus) within a year. I am currently working as Tay Ibrahim & Partners a software engineer in a Sydney-based IT company. I was not born into a rich family, but I have a family who loves and NECF-GREAT EASTERN serves God, especially a dad who has been serving Him for about 30 INSURANCE SCHEME years. I have never doubted God who has been abundantly amazing No. of cases in force to date: 1,165 me and supplying me with all my needs. God will always make a way, Cases under processing: 22 even when there seems no way. Subsidised cases: SIB Sarawak – 244 And once again, thank you NECF Foundation for fulfilling His will SIB Sabah – 52 on me. – By Lian Yuen Chi, 22, Setapak Baptist Church To date GE has paid out one claim (Yuen Chi’s father is the pastor of the church..) of RM50,000 and processing two claims.

JULY – AUGUST 2006 Berita NECF •7 Development). Following his sharing was a talk by What’s Up Youths? Dr Herbert Tan on “Leadership Development of Youth”. The family MTV has far more influence on He shared about the current consultant of Malaysia Campus Crusade Regional our youths than we think. It is Youth Workers’ most popular computer game for Christ emphasised the importance of now the planet’s biggest Consultation craze among youths – the the home as the primary place for television network, reaching 379 (North) D.o.t.A. game from the Warcraft character and leadership training. He also million households in 140 territories III series, which portrays the battle gave a 5Es model for intentional globally through 38 locally-programmed among four races – Humans, Orcs, Night development of youth leaders in the channels. Eves and Undead. church – Equipping, Exposure, Not surprisingly, MTV music videos This cybercafe game involves heavy Experience, Environment and have numb our teens to violence, alcohol, usage of magic, role-playing as demons, Evaluation. drugs and other social ills as a result of raising the dead and casting spells. While Parents need to understand the youth their characteristic quick cuts, multiple witchcraft elements in computer games culture, and teach and model to their messages, deafening audio, high-impact are not new, WarCraft III’s greatest children a life of godliness. On the church visuals, frenetic bursts and random strength and attraction are its movie- front, they need to examine the church transitions. Additionally, the videos’ quality cinematic, which pulls the players structures and methodology as to proliferation of sexual imageries has right into the classic Orc-versus-Human whether they are relevant to ministry to influenced teens to adopt a more battles popularised by the Lord of the youths. permissive attitude towards promiscuity Rings trilogy. One of the highlights of the and premarital sex. With over 500 different campaigns consultation was the Inter-Generational Wilson Wong, associate pastor of offering players many hours of fun, forum held on the last evening and ACTS church, drove home the above suspense and thrill, the overtly occultic attended by youths and parents. points in his presentation on MTV’s strategy game can numb the players to Dr Tan, who chaired the forum, influence on youths at the Regional Youth the demonic realm of witchcraft, pointed out that the gap between parents Workers’ Consultation (North) held in necromancy and spells, Patrick warned. and youths today is not a generation gap Penang in May. “While church leaders can warn its but a cultural gap. The present generation Although his sharing is not a new members of the above dangers, we see of youths has a culture of their own that revelation, it reminded the 15 youth the importance of engaging parents to is sometimes totally alien to their parents. workers and leaders from 10 churches help their children apply the Word of He then set the tone for the night by about the dangers of overexposure to God daily in their choice of entertainment, sharing some principles on cross-cultural MTV. be it songs, games or shows. By doing communication to help both parties NECF Malaysia’s Patrick Cheng so, they will be able to internalise the reality bridge this gap. The next regional youth picked up on the subject of media of God in their lives,” said the NECF consultation will be held at Johor Baru influence in his talk on the gaming culture. Executive Secretary (Leadership from ______.

The coordinators Regional Prayer Network Formed are: Susan (Kangar); PASTORS and church leaders from the northern peninsula Pr Samuel Low have agreed to form a regional network focussing on building (Sungai Petani); Pr relationship and prayer. The “Northern Region Network” is Silas (Kulim); Pr the result of a two-day regional prayer consultation in May Suguna Raj organised by the NECF Malaysia Prayer Commission. (Seberang Perai); Some 40 pastors and leaders participated in this consultation and Pr Leonard (Alor Star and coordinator for the Northern – the first of several to follow around the country – that was Region Network). held in preparation of the 2nd National Prayer Consultation At the consultation, two major issues that delegates to be held next year. The delegates were from Kangar, Alor discussed and prayed over were the lack of pastors in Star, Sungei Petani, Kulim, Baling, Seberang Perai and Penang. vernacular churches, and struggling pastors espe-cially those Six coordinators have been appointed to represent each ministering in Tamil churches and Tamil communities in the city, town and area. Their task is to follow up and facilitate the estates. The consultation ended with a combined-churches implementation of the said objectives. prayer gathering in Sungei Petani.

8• Berita NECF JULY – AUGUST 2006 All Ready for GLOBAL DAY OF PRAYER 2006 Fasting Season after Significant Spiritual Impact Prayer Camp MALAYSIAN Christians joined over participants during the worship session. 200 million brethren worldwide in the “They were very vocal and full of action, “When you Global Day of Prayer (GDOP) on June like a crowd of spectators excitedly see a small church 4, and what an experience it was! cheering their favourite football team. struggling or facing problems, you should Elder Dr Tan Nget Hong This is exactly how the saints will be grieve because that’s your flesh hurting.” – observed, “It was a tremendous event cheering when Jesus returns, and I don’t Rev. Daniel Ho with a very significant spiritual impact want to be left out.” on our nation”. Some 1200 people But the passionate worship was only from 50 churches in the Klang Valley the prelude to the intercession. Sonny attended the prayer gathering at Heritage added, “As one of the pastors prayed CHURCHES must remember that they Centre, Petaling Jaya. There were also in Tamil, the Lord convicted me and I are already one body comprising many GDOP gatherings in Penang, Sibu, had to repent of all the nasty things I different parts, rather than separate entities Sitiawan and Sungai Petani. had said of and unsavoury jokes I had forming one body. Dr Tan reported: “Many church cracked about the other races. I also “Since we are already one body, we pastors and prayer leaders called us and vowed not to talk along racist lines as should live likewise; sadly, we live as if said ‘we want to be part of this!’ This far as a particular race is concerned. we are fragmented parts, simply because helps to speed the momentum of a Imagine doing so when I’m committed we don’t have the mindset of one body,” growing united prayer movement in the to praying for their salvation. What lamented Rev. Daniel Ho. Klang Valley, and I believe, a prelude to hypocrisy! Thank God He makes all He was speaking at the recent Chinese revival.” things beautiful, in His time.” prayer camp held in conjunction with the The GDOP gathering was an eye- Another participant said she was annual NECF 40-day National Fast and opener to many participants as they moved at the sight of children Prayer. “When you see a small church experienced the unity and passion worshipping God so joyfully. struggling or facing problems, you should among the brethren in praying for the Spurred by the fervour of this year’s grieve because that’s your flesh hurting. world. The hall was filled with many GDOP gathering, planning for next You can’t ignore it because it’s like when young people and children praying year’s event is already underway. “Next one tooth hurts, the whole body suffers fearlessly and unreservedly. year, we hope to see 10000 people from too,” reiterated Rev. Ho, Dean of the Los One participant, Sonny Geh, was 200 churches gathered at a stadium on Angeles Agape Renewal Centre, a training mesmerised by the passion of the May 27. We also hope to have the centre for pastors and leaders ministering GDOP gathering in 40 cities in Chinese churches. throughout Malaysia,” The more able churches should care enthused Elder Dr Tan. for the weaker and needier parts of the “In fact, next year is our body, he urged. nation’s year of Jubilee (50th Over 100 pastors and leaders from Merdeka year) and I believe some 35 Chinese churches attended the something special in the three-day camp, which was a move away spiritual realm is going to from tradition as it was held before the happen but God’s people start of the nationwide 40-day national Part of the crowd at PJEFC, must persevere in praying and Heritage Centre, Petaling Jaya. fast and prayer in conjunction with the seeking His face,” he urged. Merdeka Day celebrations. NECF Malaysia Chinese Com- through Rev. Ho’s stirring messages on She reported too that as a result of mission, the camp organiser, had hoped “Transforming the nation through your the intimate fellowship experienced at the that holding the camp before the fasting life”, but mainly through the move of camp, participants from Petaling Jaya season would rouse the participants to the Holy Spirit. churches have agreed to start a pastors’ reach out and influence others to join the “Many participants commented that fellowship for Petaling Jaya. intercession. The commission’s executive this was truly a prayer camp because we They will meet monthly to pray and secretary Ngeh Hoong Eng believed the spent a lot of time interceding for the discuss what they can do together to camp had achieved its objective, partly nation,” Hoong Eng said. serve the community.

JULY – AUGUST 2006 Berita NECF •9 By Rev. Khoo Boo Wah, M.Th. look at these fundamental questions with united to Him in a bond, which nothing much soul searching and consideration in this world can possibly sever. He is he past 20 years have seen on the neglected areas of Christian living united to Him as the body to the head. remarkable development in the and thinking. Again, Paul declares his self-sufficiency, is TMalaysian Church. Being in Christ really Christ-sufficiency. This is evident in: Indeed, Christian life begins with God’s Being in Christ, however, is not a • The increased number of Christians initiative. It is, first and foremost, the gift business of static being. It is a matter of (though we remain a minority) from of God. A Christian is a person who becoming a new creature. Firstly, we allow some 6% in 1980 to 9.21% in 2000; links to Jesus by faith, appropriating the God to change our old nature through • The establishment of mega work accomplished on the Cross on his discipleship, for example getting rid of churches in many cities; behalf, allowing Him to make His home old ways and old habits of self- • A better understanding among in his heart, and be seen to have a life- indulgence, self-reliance and self- Christians of the scriptural image of the changing relationship with God. sufficiency. Church as the people of God; The Apostle Paul has made it clear in Secondly, we allow ourselves to be • The blurring of the demarcation line 2 Cor. 5:17, “Therefore, if anyone is in renewed of our minds, that is, rethinking between the clergy and the laity; and Christ, he is a new creation; the old has the great truths on which we are called; • The increasing emphasis and active gone, the new has come!” His encounter getting out of the old rut of prejudice, participation of Christian leaders in the with Jesus on the road to Damascus preconception and lazy acceptance of various aspects of church life, especially blinded him temporarily, crucified him half-truths; delving more deeply into in missions and services to the poor and permanently, and destroyed his vain scriptural truths; and growing more needy. attempts to find acceptance with God sincere in our thinking and speaking.

Transformation is not achieved in a sudden flash of Christians are called to display our Life-giver, emotional uplift. It is the continuous revolution, Saviour and Lord, and not ourselves. Therefore, which can never be stopped or suppressed. we depend on a power that is not our own.

Yet, is the Malaysian Church today through his own righteous zeal. As new creations, we are being alive? Paul’s saying and his experience are transformed more and more into It is generally agreed that local important in our understanding of who Christlikeness, not in appearance, of churches in Malaysia have exhibited a Christian is. Salvation does not come course, but in character. actions that are cause for concern. through self-improvement, external Among them are: the attitude of the many physical act, moral action, or by altering Remaining in Christ second or third generation Christians one’s current state of affairs. One Nonetheless, transformation is not who have narrowed their Christian contributes nothing to his salvation except achieved in a sudden flash of emotional experience to a Sunday-morning affair; his sin. Jesus Christ is the only one who uplift. It is the continuous revolution, self-satisfaction with one’s Christian life makes the difference. which can never be stopped or within the four walls of the church; over- ‘In Christ’ is the only designated realm suppressed. It is always new because any emphasis of emotional needs; prosperity where the new life can be found. No encounter with the risen Christ will turn gospel; and seeking personal prophecy. expression could more admirably sum men and women around in a new What, then, is Christian life all about? up the condition into which the Christian direction to live the new life under the Have we married our theological belief is brought as soon as he believes in Christ. new Master. It is a glad and willful and devotion with the spirit of this age? Not only does a believer have Christ surrender of the control of our lives to The above concerns require a fresh re- in him, he is also in Christ. He is intimately • SEE NEXT PAGE

10• Berita NECF JULY – AUGUST 2006 Adoption – Doing It Right In the previous issue, VICKY NG related the story of Patrick and Ai Ni who adopted baby Cherie through a “go-between” lady. Years later, they were embroiled in legal complications for failing to legally adopt her. In this article, Vicky – a practising lawyer, deaconess and Vice-Chairman of Interserve Malaysia – outlines the proper procedure to legal adoption under the Adoption Act, 1952, applicable in West Malaysia. She says, “Let’s do adoption legally because it is imperative to obey the laws of the country and for the sake of our conscience and for the welfare of the child.”

nder the Act, the only person of Social Welfare does not prevent any or body that can make any organisation or individuals from making residents in West Malaysia. Uarrangements for adoption arrangements for adoption of a child. The Act prohibits West Malaysians of a child is the Department of Social Who can adopt? The Applicant: from adopting children who are not Welfare. The other non-governmental (1) has attained the age of 25 and is at ordinarily residents in West Malaysia. agency that has made arrangements for least 21 years older than the child; “Ordinary resident” means that the adoption is the Assunta Hospital’s Sister’s (2) has attained the age of 21 and is a residence is not casual and uncertain and Project that has been active since 1966. relative of the child; or of a sufficient duration and continuity This organisaton is affiliated to the Social (3) is the mother or father of the child. to satisfy the requirement of ordinary Welfare Department. The Applicant (potential adoptive residence. In practice, however, the Department parents) and the child must be ordinary • SEE NEXT PAGE

• FROM PREVIOUS PAGE a daily personal sort of devotion and righteousness. God’s rule. actively share in the life of the Christian The knowledge of God is not an Without Christ, even if we have the community. By the former, it does not experience to be savoured in solitariness; correct doctrines, we do not live under mean the following of any prescribed it is something to be shared. Christianity the dominion of Christ or have the truth sort of practice because people differ. without mission is a denial of its very or His revealed will. Without Christ, we What is meant is that each of us, in nature. may persist in doing things our ways, and his own way, must first centre our What are the qualities that must be may eventually create our own gods to attention on God, what He has done in found in those who would stay in God’s give meaning and purpose to our lives. Christ and what He will do for us. presence? The answer is found in our daily William Whiting Borden, a young Secondly, we need to be regularly duties to our fellow men, clearly expressed missionary to China, once wrote, “In present at the Sunday worship when in Proverbs and Psalms. every man’s heart there is a throne and a God’s people gather together, and It is not about lofty emotions or cross. If Christ is on the throne, self is on actively share in the life of the Christian experiences of spiritual rapture, but the the cross, and if self, even a little bit, is on community of which we are members. integrity in life, righteousness in actions, the throne, Jesus is on the cross in that These are the modes by which we and sincerity in speech. Our communion man’s heart.” may effectively come to deepen our faith with God must be lived out in those ‘Remaining in Christ’ means making and build a kind of inner security which deeds that make up our daily living. an effort to develop our life in Christ. all ‘the changes and chances’ of life cannot The Christian life is not confined to Salvation is a gift but we have to work it seriously disturb. church on Sundays, but a daily out with fear and trembling. commitment to Christ in all areas of life. The challenge for us, as people in Displaying Christ Christians are called to display our Christ, is to become in daily reality what Finally, not only we are saved from sin, Life-giver, Saviour and Lord, and not we already are in the eyes of God. While we are also saved to do something. ourselves. Therefore, we depend on a we desire to demonstrate a life of Loving God this way is not a simple power that is not our own. devotion to God, we stumble into sin matter for many of us. Yet, the Christian The issue rests not on whether we are and utterly fail from time to time in our life is life in the Spirit. The New worthy, but on the fact that He who calls Christian walk. There is no ‘quick fix’, for Testament clearly envisions the Christian us to this new life in Christ is a faithful the battle lasts through a lifetime. life as simultaneously one of dying and God. He calls, He equips. Christians, However, we can remain in Christ one of living –dying more and more unto unworthy as we are, need to wait upon and be faithful to Him when we observe sin and living more and more unto Him always.

JULY – AUGUST 2006 Berita NECF •11 • FROM PREVIOUS PAGE: ADOPTION 2) it will be for the assist the court to arrive at its Consent welfare of the child. decision. Before an adoption order is made the When a guardian ad litem courts must be satisfied that the consent Adoption Procedure is appointed by the court, the of every person who is the parent or 1) The Applicants file an court will then fix a hearing guardian or a person liable to contribute Adoption Petition either in date for the Petition. This is to the support of the child is obtained. the High Court or Sessions normally three months from Consent may be dispensed with Court of Malaya. The the date of the first court under certain conditions – the usual ones Petition is supported by an attendance by all parties so being, when the parent or guardian of affidavit sworn by the as to allow the guardian ad the child has abandoned, neglected or Applicants to affirm the litem time to complete his persistently ill- treated the child; or where truthfulness of the statements made in investigations. the person whose consent is required the Petition to adopt. 5) At the second court attendance, cannot be found or is incapable of giving The Letter of Consent from the which is the hearing date of the Petition, his consent; or where his consent is natural parent/s or guardian is also filed in the presence of all parties concerned, unreasonably withheld. in court. In practice, an Application to the court would consider the report of In the case of children born out of dispense with the attendance in court by the guardian ad litem – who would have wedlock, a letter of consent by the natural the natural parents/guardian is filed interviewed the Applicants directly (if mother of the child is often deemed simultaneously so that they are spared the necessary) and seen the child – and based sufficient by the courts where the father trauma of coming to court. on all these factors, make a decision for of the child cannot be traced. 2) The Petition has to be served on a Final Order for adoption. It is expedient that once the child is a all relevant parties including the Social 6) After the Final Order is granted, candidate for adoption, consent should Welfare Department. the court will then write to the National be obtained immediately from the natural 3) The court fixes a hearing date where Registration Department authorising parent/s and the child handed over to the Applicants, the child and the Social them to issue the birth certificate for the the Applicants for continuous care and Welfare officer have to be present. child pursuant to the order by the court. possession. 4) At the first court attendance, if the It must be stressed that our Adoption Because of the strong emotional court is satisfied that an Adoption Order Act has been amended so that the birth bonds between the natural mother and be made in favour of the Applicants, the certificate of the child does not carry the the child, it is also advisable that the court shall initially make an Interim Order word “adopted” like in the past. Instead, whereabouts of the child be hidden from and appoint the Social Welfare officer as the duly issued birth certificate is similar the natural mother and no further contacts the guardian ad litem of the child. to that of a natural born child. be forged thereafter. It is the duty of the guardian ad litem The adoptive father and mother of Before an adoption order is made to investigate as fully as possible all the the child appear on the birth certificate as the court must primarily be satisfied that: circumstances of the child and the the child’s natural parents and the child’s 1) consent has been obtained from Applicants and all other matters relevant name is as given by the adoptive parents. every person whose consent is necessary to the proposed adoption in order to Therefore Applicants should not (except where consent has been dispensed safeguard the interests of the child before worry that the grown-up child may with) and that the person understands the the court. discover the adoption from the birth nature and effect of the adoption order The guardian ad litem will visit the certificate. which will permanently deprive him or Applicants to interview them and see the 7) An Adoption Order once made her of his/her child in his home environment. In operates to transfer all rights, duties, parental rights; particular, the guardian ad litem has to obligations and liabilities of the natural and investigate whether the means and status parent/guardian to the adopter as if the of the Applicants are sufficient to child was born to the adopter in lawful maintain and bring up the wedlock. This further means that the child suitably and that the adopted child has the right to inheritance adoption is desirable for of properties as that of the natural-born the welfare of the child. child of the adopter. The report of the The whole process of adoption until guardian ad litem is getting the birth certificate takes about confidential and five to six months, provided all the above crucial to the court to -mentioned conditions are satisfied.

12• Berita NECF JULY – AUGUST 2006 National Prayer Conference (English) Make a Date with Doulos
Date: August 24–26 Nation Through the Local Church”. Pasir Gudang, Johore: Aug 4–15
Place: Full Gospel Church, Speakers is Bishop Efraim Tendero, Kuantan: Aug 18–27 Johor Baru national director of the Philippines Council of Evangelical Churches The world’s oldest ocean This year’s National Prayer Conference (PCEC). passenger ship is currently and rally will move stage from the Klang PCEC is a network of 20,000 docked at Port Klang until Valley to Johor Baru to benefit our churches within 65 denominations and July 31. brethren in south Peninsular Malaysia. 150 para-church organisations in the The theme is “Transforming the country. 2nd NECF Tamil Conference Children’s Prayer
Date: August 22–23 BM Leaders Conference
Conference & Rally Place: FGT, Wisma Eagles,
Place: Sarikei, Sarawak Subang Jaya, Selangor
Date: August 21–22
Date: Oct 16–18
This conference aims to motivate and Place: PJEFC, Heritage Centre, Speakers: Rev. Dr Bambang Petaling Jaya challenge pastors and Widjaya and Dr Herbert Tan church leaders to build THE 2nd national Children’s Prayer Contact: Pr Peter Mutang (013- healthy and strong Conference will be held during the school 8140028); Pr Robin Ato (013-8140028) churches that last. holiday for children aged five to 12.
Place: Ranau, Sabah The NECF Malaysia The NECF Prayer Commission, the
Date: Oct 23–25 Tamil Commission urges organiser, is also encouraging Sunday Speakers: Rev. Dr Bambang all involved in building School and Children Ministry’s teachers Widjaya and Rev. Wong Kim Kong Tamil congregations to to sit in the sessions to learn from the Contact: Elder George Mikil – (013- come and discover how speaker who will help the children to 8608285) they can overcome discern God’s voice and know His weaknesses and explore purposes based on Jeremiah 1:5. THE NECF Malaysia BM Commission dynamic church growth The teachers will need to register as is organising the above conferences with principles. participants. All teaching sessions will be the theme “Leader: Skill, Character, Vision The speakers are Rev. Eu Hong Seng conducted by Pr Sam Phun who has over and Management”. (NECF Chairman); Rev. P.S. Rajamoni 22 years of experience working with The conferences will focus on (Acting General Superintendent of The children in churches and schools. leadership skills, character, vision and South India Assemblies of God) and The conference will end with a management of church ministry in the Rev. David Mohan who pastors one of children’s prayer rally. The registration fee present times. The conference are jointly the largest churches in India with a 15,000- of RM25 includes meals, materials and a organised with the Ranau Council of people congregation. special doorgift. Churches and Pusat SIB Sarawak. Registration fee is RM20 per person (subsidised) and it includes conference materials, lunch and tea. Contact NECF RLM Concert 2006 Smith and its own dance group. The for registration or information. concert is themed “Real Love Brings Real There will also be night rallies from
Date: August 5 (Saturday) Life” and will be graced by Minister in 8.00pm at the same venue. Rev. Mohan
Place: 3K Sports Complex & Inn, the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk will speak on both nights. His messages Subang Jaya Dr Maximus Ongkili. will be interpreted in English. Real Love Ministry is holding a To get the tickets, priced from RM40 fundraising concert featuring Juwita to RM80, e-mail [email protected] or See page 15 Merdeka Prayer Rally venues Suwito, its ministry director Edmund call Helga at 012-2122847.

JULY – AUGUST 2006 Berita NECF •13 Johor

THIS year’s Lighting Up Our Nation programme, held in conjunction with Merdeka Day, will focus on praying for our own nation. Berita NECF will highlight in each issue a state for intercession. In the last issue, we focussed on Pahang and here, we look at Johor, a state made famous by the now-defunct “crooked bridge” project. We hope that the information provided through “State Spot” will stir up more passionate intercession.
STATISTICS (MALAYSIA during his premiership, in an effort to root STATISTICS DEPARTMENT, 2005) out extremist teaching. In 2004, there were already 537 Population: 3,101,200 (est.) Ethnic groups: Malay 52.76%, Chinese religious schools directly administered 32.36%, Other Bumiputera 1.26%, Indian 6.6%, and fully funded by the state government. Others 0.62%, Non-citizens 6.4% The state religious department also “exposing a Muslim to Christian literature, Religious Breakdown (2000): Islam 58.8%, Buddhism 28.7, Tribal 0.2%, regulates and supervises the remaining 23 gospel music or even an evangelistic car Christianity 2.2%, Hinduism 5.9%, Taoism/ ‘private’ religious schools (Sekolah bumper sticker”. Section 133 of the Confucianism 3.2%, Others 0.2%, No Religion Agama Rakyat), assisting them with Johor Islamic Family Law Enactment 0.4%, Unknown 0.4% Incidence of poverty (2004): 2%, annual financial grants. For many 1990 provides apostasy as a punishable Hardcore 0.3% Johoreans, Islamic education is a matter offence. of course to complement the national In 1992, Johor mandated that all ohor has gained much attention as a education stream. building applications, including result of the controversies arising Muar became the birthplace of Parti applications to construct churches, be Jfrom the now-defunct ‘crooked’ Islam SeMalaysia (PAS) in 1951 when the approved by seven state agencies, bridge project. ulama (Muslim scholars) met to discuss including the Islamic department. Johor is the birthplace of Malay and exchange views on the promotion In December 2005, the state nationalism, which led to the formation of religion with a concentration on authorities demolished a church of the of United Malay National Association education. Orang Asli in Kampung Orang Laut (UMNO) in 1946. Although relationships among the Masai settlement on grounds that the It was the first state, and currently the people of different religious background church was built illegally on state land. only state in Malaysia, that has its own are generally harmonious, Islamic military force called Johor Military Force consciousness is evidenced by a great Orang Asli (OA) or ‘Timbalan Setia Negeri’, a private demand for religious education as well In 1997, the OA community received a army of the Sultan of Johor. Since as the rigorous enforcement of religious morale booster in the case of Adong bin independence, Johor has been a bastion principles in many aspects of people’s Kuwan v Kerajaan Negeri Johor & Anor for UMNO. lives, including those of other faiths. For when the High Court declared that the example, in Johor Baru, written consent OA of Sg. Linggiu had common law Islamisation and religious freedom of Muslim neighbours must be obtained rights besides their rights under the Johor was the first Malay state to organise before renewal or new dog licences can Aboriginal Peoples Act 1954 over their Islam on a bureaucratic basis. The Jabatan be issued. ancestral lands, rights that are protected Agama Islam Negeri Johor (Johor In their effort to rein in the deviant by the Federal Constitution. Islamic Department) was established group ‘Sky Kingdom’ and its teachings, Nevertheless, development plans under the state constitution, enabling the the religious department has been closely along the coast overlooking the Tebrau state government to have direct control monitoring two villages in Kluang and Straits have often forced the relocation over religious activities. Mersing. The authorities are also keeping of OA communities. They continue to A section headed by the Inspector and an eye on any possible Shi’ite activity. face land issues, and many remain poor Registrar of Religious Schools took In 1991, the state passed the Control and uneducated because of their charge of religious education. The Johor and Restriction of the Propagation of Non- reluctance to change their lifestyle and Islamic education system should be a Islamic Religions Bill. The law provides that inability to face modern challenges. model to be emulated by other states, for Christians to be fined up to $4,000 said Tun Dr Mahathir Mohammad or imprisoned for up to four years for • SEE NEXT PAGE

14• Berita NECF JULY – AUGUST 2006 Pray • FROM PREVIOUS PAGE • The people find their true dignity in God and To enable social and economic development for the OA, not on status or background. state Local Government and Health Committee chairman • The police force in Johor Baru in maintaining Datuk Halimah Sadique reportedly said that they would be law and order, and against all kinds of crime relocated under a new resettlement exercise (NST, Dec 21, 2005). and immorality. • Amicable relationship with Singapore and a Terrorism solution to the water supply issue. Wan Min Wat Mat, currently detained under the Internal Security • Financial recovery and wiser management of Act, admitted to having been involved in the Bali bombing. He state funds. was head of the Jemaah Islamiyah (JI) chapter in Johor and • Authorities to properly address the plight of was said to have carried out secret military training in the jungles Orang Asli communities in all development of Gunung Ledang and Gunung Belumut from 1994 to 1998. projects that involve resettlement. He was also said to have set up Luqmanul Hakiem in Ulu • Authorities to effectively curb all illegal Tiram in 1998 (closed down by the government in 2001). The incursions. school was financed by JI Imam Samudra, Mukhlas and • Against the spiritual forces behind extremism. Indonesia’s JI leader Abu Bakar Ba’asyir are all said to have • Authorities and public to uphold religious taught there. Of the 10 Malaysians recorded on the al-Qaeda freedom for everyone, and respect the Federal associates and members list, four — Mohd Nasir, Amran, Constitution as the supreme law of the law. • Church: Nordin, Yazid — were born in Johor. renewed vision unity for in the reaching community; out to effective the lost;

outreach among the foreign workers; against Other issues complacency and materialism among believers. Syndicates specialising in selling luxury cars and corrupt practice in the timber industry are frequently reported. According to the Country Reports on Human Rights Practices released early this year, human trafficking is a problem in Johor, which also has been recording high number of churches. It is reported reported incest and rape cases since 2000. that 80% of Chinese Johoreans attend In March at the Dewan Rakyat, the state capital was labelled Chinese schools, at least at the primary level. There is a huge as “sin city” and “crime city” by a Johor MP. It is believed that pool of foreign workers coming mainly from Vietnam, security in Johor Bahu has reached a worrying trend, and the Indonesia, Burma and Bangladesh. Ministry to the Vietnamese Singapore media has reported the city as unsafe for tourists. workers appears to be the strongest. The eastern coast between Kota Tinggi, Penggerang and Few churches are active in social ministry while many are Mersing is one of the major entry points for illegal Indonesian dynamic in short-term mission involvement, both abroad and migrants. Many of them have contributed to social problems local. Church leaders believe that Johor churches could be more in the communities. vibrant and zealous in evangelism. Johor’s supply of water to Singapore, which revolves around price and how it is MERDEKA PRAYER RALLIES calculated, remains one of the outstanding issues in the bilateral relationship between TOWN/CITY VENUE DATE CONTACT Alor Star Full Gospel Church 29 Pr Kuilan (04-7341636) Malaysia and Singapore. Penang Dome, Komtar 31 Dr Andrew Chong (04-6425709) K. Terengganu Lifeline Assembly 30 Pr Koshy Thomas (09-6170830) The Church Kuantan Grace Charismatic 30 Rev. Richard Ong (09-5177127) Presbyterianism grew through Chinese churches in Johor.. The Johor Baru Holy Light Church, Rawang Diakonia Church 30 Pr David Tan (03-60918150) founded in 1886 by a missionary of the Klang Valley PJEFC, Heritage Centre 30 Dr Tan Nget Hong (012-3817856) Seremban Agape Church 25 Rev. Voon Yuen Woh (06-7653777) Presbyterian Church of England, is the oldest Kluang Prime City Hotel 29 Rev. Sunther (019-7267634) Protestant church in Johor. There are more than 150 churches in the state capital and unity among Johor Baru Full Gospel Church 27 Pr Tay Wah Seng (016-7384904) the churches is evidenced in the strong pastors’ Kuching Tadika Rhema 30 Pr Ned (082-339188) fellowships. The largest congregation in a single Sibu Logos Methodist 31 Rev. Kong Chong Ling (084-339188) locality has about 2000 members. Labuan The Church of 28 Pr Calvin Chong (016-8170087) Our Holy Saviour Recent years have seen consistent and steady Tawau Dewan Katholic 30 Pr Flora Chong (089-772212) growth, particularly in the Chinese-speaking

JULY – AUGUST 2006 Berita NECF •15 INDONESIA providing advocacy, food, shelter and terrorist by both the US and the UN. medical care for the victims Aweys has vowed to enact Syariah ON May 27, an earthquake measuring found themselves in conflict with the across Somalia. Already, he has ruled 6.2 on the Richter scale struck Yogyakarta, government and security forces. that Muslims who miss prayers will be killing over 5,100 people, injuring The churches decided to hold an regarded as infidels and killed. Three thousands and displacing more than anniversary prayer event on May 20, with Christian men were recently shot dead, 130,000. A spokesman of United Nation a prayer procession and simultaneous while some children of Christian Somali Children’s Fund reported that 40% of prayer vigils to remember the victims refugees in Kenya have been kidnapped the homeless are under 18 years. Close of Operation Murambitsvina and pray by Muslim relatives and taken to to 35,000 homes and buildings have been for the nation. Islamic institutions in Somalia for turned into rubble. However the police detained and ‘rehabilitation’. Although the region is Muslim- interrogated several pastors and ordered The situation in Somalia is dangerous majority, Christians were not spared from them to cancel the prayer event. The and desperate. Pray for: God to intervene the affliction. Barnabas Fund reported that more the churches stand for justice and there for the sake of his Kingdom and there are up to 40,000 Christians living in righteousness the more they glory; God to speed the rescue of the Bantul and up to 180,000 Christians in are repressed as potential enemies of the children who have been kidnapped Klaten, two badly-hit areas. state. Furthermore the issue of church from their Christian Somali refugee Praise God for the quick response to engagement in social justice and political parents. the victims. Pray that the suffering issues is splitting and polarising the Church Pray for: the Holy Spirit to mercifully Indonesians will see His love through His in Zimbabwe. save many Somali people through people who are ministering in the affected Please pray that the Zimbabwean dreams, visions, gospel radio, Somali- areas. Pray for victims and those who churches will be united in putting the language Christian literature and the have lost their loved ones, that they will gospel into action. (Ephesians 6:12) personal witness of believers; God’s receive physical and emotional healing, servants to have access to bring the good INDIA restoration of lives and homes. news to those desperate for peace and Pray for effective teamwork among ON May 19, the Governor of Rajasthan calm; God to raise up wise, strong relief agencies, efficient delivery of relief refused to sign into law the leaders for Somalia in law, medicine, services to the victims and good state’s proposed anti-conversion bill, agriculture, education, government, stewardship and proper managing of saying it violated religious peace-making and every other field, relief fund. Pray for wisdom and freedom. She sent the legislation back to especially in the Church. righteousness for the Indonesian the Assembly. NEPAL authorities in rebuilding the afflicted areas Praise God for such independent and restoring the lives of victims. political and moral courage. Pray for ON May 18, Nepal was proclaimed a For our Christian brethren who are God’s blessing and comfort upon the secular state. The previously Hindu afflicted, pray: that they do not lose heart persecuted Church in Rajasthan and that kingdom went through 19 days of in times of difficulties and remain He will frustrate the ways of the wicked! protests in April seeking a return to a steadfast in God’s faithfulness; the light (Psalm 146:9) democratic system first instituted in of God will continue to shine through 1990. The country has been in a state of SOMALIA them; and they will find favour with the emergency since 2004. As Nepal is now Indonesian authorities in obtaining IN early June, Mogadishu, the capital of a secular state, pray that the widespread permit to rebuild their churches. Somalia, fell to an alliance of Islamic discrimination and persecution of low militias after they had fought for four castes and non-Hinuds will now end. ZIMBABWE months against an alliance of warlords. Pray that God will strengthen Nepal’s A year ago, the Robert Mugabe regime The ‘Islamic Courts Union’ (ICU) leaders to stand against Hindu nationalists, razed some 300,000 homes in a Shura Council will act as a parliament in restrain its Hindu masses, and bless its campaign called Operation all areas the ICU controls. Its head, Sheikh young growing Church for the Kingdom Murambitsvina (clean out filth). Churches Hassan Dahir Aweys, is designated a and glory of God.

16• Berita NECF JULY – AUGUST 2006 CurfCurforor yyrrourourentent prprConcerConceraayyererss nsns Lina Joy, Shamala, determine the religious status of an the projects will be awarded to individual. If the appellate court agrees responsible, principled and honest conversion cases that civil courts have the jurisdiction, it contractors. Pray too against all On July 17, the Court of Appeal put on would then send the “M. Moorthy case” corruption in the construction process. hold hearing of all cases pertaining to back to the High Court for the merits of religious conversion until the Federal the case to be heard. Anti-terrorist watch Court delivers judgment in the Lina Joy’s On Dec 28 last year, the Appellate Several small groups attempted some case. Court of Appeal judge Datuk and Special Powers High Court had ruled years ago to mount a violent struggle to Mokhtar Sidin made the ruling when that it would not disturb the declaration overthrow the government and install hearing appeals by Dr M. Jeyaganesh and that Moorthy was a Muslim because the their version of an Islamic country, a counter appeal by his wife, S. Shamala matter was under the jurisdiction of the revealed Deputy Inspector-General of (see pg 3). Syariah Court. Police Datuk Seri Musa Hassan (The Star, Mokhtar said the court wanted to On Jan 24, the late Moorthy’s wife, May 19). “The majority are religious wait for the Federal Court’s decision in S. Kaliammal filed a petition of appeal students who went to Pakistan to study Joy’s case because the apex court’s against the High Court decision. Islam but instead were taught that the judgement might annul his court’s findings. Again, the Court’s decision in government was not Islamic and they had The Federal Court has heard Joy’s case September has far-reaching consequences to overthrow it by violence,” he said. and the three judges are now deliberating for the present and future generations. “They were trained by the Taliban their decisions, which will have great Please pray for the judges that they will during the Afghan war and returned to repercussion for generations to come. remember their duty to the country’s Malaysia to carry out their violence.” The Therefore, let us humbly and urgently pluralistic society. clandestine groups were nabbed in time ask Him to intervene at this crucial juncture Pray that God will give them strength by the police. of our nation’s history, so that truth, to resist pressure from certain quarters To empower the police to be even righteousness and godliness will prevail as they deliberate their judgement. more effective, the Government is in our land. Please pray: The dual-legal system is already in amending the Criminal Procedure Code • For the judges that they will: remember place in Malaysia. Pray for clarification (CPC) to allow them to intercept their judicial motto “Berkhidmat untuk of the courts’ role; for our leaders, judges, communication involving terrorism Keadilan”; uphold the supremacy of the lawmakers and law enforcers to uphold suspects. The CPC (Amendment) Bill will Federal Constitution; have an open mind the principle of justice for everyone; and also empower the police to arrest without in interpreting the law; and deliver for rational and moderate religious and a warrant anyone suspected of being judgement without fear or favour; civil groups to work together for public involved in a terrorist act. • Against the spiritual forces (Eph. 6:12) interests and justice. Continue to lift up in prayer those behind those who seek to hijack ‘religion’ responsible for the security of our nation. for their own gain and sow discord within 9MP Projects Pray for them to be vigilant and may God the community; The Government has announced RM15 give them the right leads. • For the Prime Minister to act justly to billion worth of projects to be tendered defuse all attempts to incite religious under the first batch of the 9th Malaysia Incentives for OA sentiments and hatred; Plan. The Government has adopted a conversion • God will be sovereign over whatever new Project and Programme AS part of its efforts to convert more decision meted out by the Federal Court, Management methodology to ensure the Orang Asli (OA) to Islam, the Kelantan and that righteousness and freedom, 880 projects are completed on schedule, Government is offering RM10,000 to its peace and harmony, and the overall and to ensure good practices and missionaries (male or female) who marry wellbeing of the nation will prevail; and processes in planning and implementing Orang Asli men or women. Other • For God’s peace for Joy and Shamala the projects. incentives offered include free housing, a and all others in their predicament. The projects include 450 schools, monthly allowance of RM1,000 and a transport systems, government buildings, four-wheel-drive vehicle. Moorthy Case water supply projects, building and They were also expected to settle In September, the Court of Appeal will upgrading roads, and clinics. down in Orang Asli communities in Jeli make a decision whether the civil or Pray that the tendering process will and Gua Musang to spread Islamic Syariah courts has the jurisdiction to be fair and totally free of corruption and teachings and act as spiritual figures. The

JULYJULY –– AUGUSTAUGUST 20062006 BeritaBerita NECFNECF •17• 1 CurfCurforor yyrrourourentent prprConcerConceraayyererss nsns  incentives were introduced after the the trainees attending their classes, and honouring its ratification of the former establishment of the Orang Asli Dakwah that they will be able to communicate convention. Unit in May to focus on converting OA. with them. Amnesty International responded to Pray for the OA community that God Pray that God will use them mightily Malaysia’s election by urging Malaysia to will reveal Himself to them and His light to impact the trainees. Pray for the safety ratify UN conventions on torture and will penetrate their hearts so that they will of volunteers who have to travel in civil rights, scrap restrictive laws (eg. ISA) know the true, living God. Pray too for rough conditions to get to the classes. and protect migrants and refugees, before their welfare, that they will be it can sit in judgment on other countries. economically blessed so that they will Human Rights Poser The Observatory for the Protection become self-reliant. On May 9, the UN General Assembly of Human Rights Defenders wrote an Meanwhile, the Human Rights elected Malaysia to the 47-member UN open letter to our PM to express its Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam) has Human Rights Council, a move that was concern on the disruption of the “Federal criticised the Kelantan government’s seen as ironic to some and inconceivable Constitution – Protection for All Public monetary incentives to convert OA, to others for many known reasons. Forum” in Penang. saying that utilising state resources in this In recent years, the country’s human Pray that Malaysia’s entry to the council manner is an abuse of power and rights performance seemed to have will improve citizens’ human rights as it violation of the basic right, especially the improved, judging by the media’s will now come under international scrutiny freedom of thought, conscience and increased boldness in criticising and pressure to live up to the expected religion by monetary inducement. government policies and officials, human rights standard. It advised the state to use the resources exposing government corruption, and to help empower the poorest covering contentious debates at the Rising divorce rate community through economic activities Dewan Rakyat. An increasing number of Malaysians are which will enhance their income, improve Yet, serious human rights issues opting for divorce when problems crop educational opportunities and develop continue to plague Malaysians. Among up in their marriage (NST, May 18). In their human potential to ensure them a them are: 2004, about 150,060 couples uttered the better quality of life. Pray along this line. • the increased constraints on those who marital vow. In the same year, 19,800 want to leave Islam for other religions; divorce cases were recorded, an increase Hardy NS • ethnic discrimination (eg. preferential of 4,561 cases compared with 2000. volunteers programmes designed to boost Statistics from the National Population National Service camps are currently economic position of bumiputras while and Family Development Board show running and we need to uphold our Orang Asli continue to be the poorest that the divorce rate is highest among volunteers who are conducting the weekly group, OA land ownership issues, etc.); Muslims. One reason for the rising trend Christian classes throughout the country. • gender discrimination (Muslim women is that the current generation places more Praise God for the dedicated and in particular); and importance on self and is more open to passionate volunteers, some who have • denial of fair public trials (M. Moorthy. the concept of divorce. Another is the to travel long distance, through jungles S. Shamala, Ayah Pin’s followers, etc.) demise of the extended family, especially and in poor road condition, to get to Human rights groups have opposed in urban areas. their classes. Malaysia’s selection into the council A solid marriage provides a firm Several camps have low numbers of because of the government’s failure “to foundation for a thriving, harmonious Christian trainees, yet this has not deterred ink a raft of international human rights family life. Pray for churches to provide the volunteers. For example, the Sg Bakap treaties” (malaysiakini, May 10). strong leadership in the area of marital camp in Penang has only one Christian To date, Malaysia has ratified two out counselling, not only for their own trainee while the Pagoh camp in Johor of the 12 international UN human rights members for their communities. has four; yet the volunteers have agreed treaties – the Convention on the Pray for comfort and healing for to take on the classes. For their faithfulness, Elimination of All Forms of those suffering, especially the children, God has led non-Christians to attend their Discrimination against Women and the from the effects of divorces. Pray for classes and some have become Christians Convention on the Rights of the Child. organisations, such as Focus on the Family, through them. However, the predicament of the that work to uphold strong family values, Pray for the volunteers to be sensitive Muslim women in this country has given that they will have more than enough to the spiritual and emotional needs of the impression that the government is not resources to carry out their tasks.

18•2• Berita NECF JULYJULY –– AUGUSTAUGUST 20062006