http://www.necf.org.my/html/berita_f.htm PP5872/1 /2008 MARCH – APRIL 2007

EDITORIAL

t was St. Paul who wrote: “Here is a sins and purify us from all mous local church setting but the basic trustworthy saying that deserves full unrighteousness.” While confession and principles apply to more complex or Iacceptance: Christ Jesus came into the repentance does not negate the denominational settings. world to save sinners...” (1 Tim. 1:15) If consequences of sin, a person who Jesus came to save sinners, we who model confesses is nevertheless purified in a Accusation & Thorough our ministry on His must do the same. spiritual sense from all impurities and Investigation We are to “save” sinners. unrighteousness. This is properly the first step because so Here is where the Church has been The sinner who has confessed and often, there is no repentance until the sin found wanting, especially with regards to repented must ideally come to such a place is discovered. leaders who fall. In the last editorial, we where he knows for sure he has been When an accusation is brought against looked at accountability and the forgiven by God, accepts himself and is a leader, an inquiry should be set up to avoidance of pitfalls. Here, we examine accepted by the same community where investigate the matter thoroughly. The the appropriate response when a leader the sin was committed and found out. leader should be convicted only if there falls despite every precaution taken. The sinner does not have to hide is sufficient proof of wrongdoing. away. The stigma should not stick to the FORGIVENESS person forever. Often, when a leader • SEE PAGE 3 The basic issue is forgiveness. What is falls, the church’s first reaction is damage forgiveness and what does it entail? The control. While the well-being of the INSIDE theological underpinning comes from 1 sheep and the reputation of the church THIS ISSUE Jn. 1:9: “If we confess our sins, he is must be protected, the welfare of the • It’s time to invest...... 2 faithful and just and will forgive us our fallen leader is worthy of equal concern. The ultimate aim is not • Toxic Leaders: How...... 4 not to lead to punish but to restore the fallen person. The • The right to profess...... 5 following are a number of practical steps towards • Joni Eareckson to join..... 7 celebration in Malaysia restoration. We assume an autono- • Theological Education..... 10 Crisis A leader who has fallen should not be left alone to • Safeguard rights of all 12 deal with his sin(s). The Malaysians church should come alongside to help restore • State Spot – ...... 14 him to wholeness. NECF MALAYSIA COUNCIL Chairman Rev. Eu Hong Seng It’s time to invest Vice-Chairman Elder Kong Yeng Phooi Honorary Secretary By Rev. Eu Hong Seng Joshua had made great strides during Mr Samuel Ang Honorary Treasurer Chairman, NECF Malaysia his generation but unfortunately failed to Dr Khoo Kay Hup hand on the baton to the next. The result Committee Members S I write, we are witnessing a – many years of leadership instability and Rev. Justin Wan flurry of activity on international spiritual demise. Rev. Dexter Low stock markets as investors seek My constant prayer is for spiritual Rev. Ng Kok Kee A to ‘take profits’ after steady gains over fathers to rise and invest in the next Rev. Foo Moy Peng Rev. Simon Chandran the last few months. I am always amazed generation. And please, no more mere Pr Tay Wah Seng at the urgency and diligence with which “amens!” Nike has a lot to teach us – Elder Chua Keng Seng stock-holders monitor their investments, “Just do it!” Mrs Grace Hee acting swiftly to prevent losses or Like Joshua, we are in severe danger Advisor capitalise on gains. of succeeding in this generation but Elder David Boler, K.M.N. And as we rapidly approach the last having no spiritual legacy in the next. We Rev. Datuk Prince Guneratnam days, I am reminded about God’s call are not going to live forever…but there for us to be urgent and diligent in tasks is still [just!] time, I believe, to determine NECF MALAYSIA STAFF pertaining to the advancement of His whether we are going to leave behind a Secretary-General Rev. Wong Kim Kong, J.M.N. kingdom – particularly that of Joshua or a Judges generation. Executive Secretaries investing in the next generation. At NECF, as we embark on a nation- Ann Low (Prayer) The problem is, an often repeated building policy, we must not neglect to Kathryn Tan (Finance) truth becomes an empty slogan – its focus on the group who will be the pillars Patrick Cheng (Leadership repetition slowly inoculates us into a mode to sustain the current move of God in our Development ) of inaction, apathy and complacency! land. The Joshua generation will be Lim Siew Foong (Research) Cheong Sze Ying (Chinese) At some point we mentally assented people with the energy to “take” the new Cheong Sze Sian (Chinese) to the statement’s validity, and at the same territories that God is calling the churches Alfred Tais (Bahasa Malaysia) Simon S. Arputham (Administrator) Joshua had made great strides during his Ong Juat Heng (Communications) generation, but unfortunately failed to hand on the Rev. Lai Moo Him (Special Projects & baton to the next. Let’s not make his mistake. Church Relations) Sandy Tan (Secretary-General’s Office) Confidential Secretary Ching Bee Gaik Administrative Secretaries Yvonne Chin Leong Kit Wah time figured that we had taken it ‘on of Malaysia into. Sangan Mutang Administrative Assistants board’. But as time goes by, the initial No doubt, as older men, we should Sally Tan urgency diminishes and we are left with have accumulated wisdom, experience Jouslly Buaya a slogan. and connections, but like Moses we also EDITORIAL Israel was blessed to have a leader need the energy, strength and “push” of Editor like Moses, who took the trouble to the younger men to bring God’s work Rev. Wong Kim Kong, J.M.N. groom a godly successor in Joshua. to completion. Assistant Editor & Writer However, every generation must adopt In my recent travels to Europe, I Ong Juat Heng the same mindset. We must intentionally noted sadly that more than 80 percent ADDRESS set about identifying, training and of the churches there have congre- 32, Jalan SS2/103, grooming the next generation because as gations where the number of young 47300 Petaling Jaya we see at the beginning of the book of Selangor, Malaysia people is less than 10 percent of the Tel: 603-7727 8227 Judges, there was no one to carry on membership. Fax: 603-7729 1139 Joshua’s good work and build on the My concern for the nations, as for E-mail: [email protected] ‘gains’ that he had made. • SEE NEXT PAGE Printed by Akitiara Corporation 1 & 3, Jln TPP1/3, Tmn Industri Puchong Batu 12, 47100 Puchong, Selangor 2• Berita NECF MARCH – APRIL 2007 • FROM COVER: A FTER THE F ALL, WHAT? When the requirements of counselling of view this cannot be verified and a and repentance have been fulfilled, negative decision could have been made However, not every accusation ought another special congregational meeting earlier. So there is practically no way for to be entertained. 1 Tim. 5:19 says: “Do should be held to formally accept the the person to return to ministry (at least not entertain an accusation against an elder full recovery of the fallen leader. This in the same place). unless it is brought by two or three meeting ought to be conducted at the The tragedy of King Saul should be witnesses.” That’s the starting point. church where the sin was committed and a warning for all of us not to take things discovered, and not at another church for granted. An unwillingness to repent Confession & Repentance whose members did not bear the pain at the earliest opportunity may not only If found guilty of the alleged sin, the leader should resign from the position “While the well-being of the held. He is also expected to confess and sheep and the reputation of the repent. He confesses in word and church must be protected, the repents/turns from the sin in deed. welfare of the fallen leader is The sin has hurt the entire Body and the confession must be public, for worthy of equal concern. The example in a special service for church ultimate aim is not to punish but members only. The fallen leader asks for to restore the fallen person.” forgiveness from the church and his family. The church in return pledges to of the leader’s fall. Of course, once this bar the door to future ministry, it may extend forgiveness. is done, the leader may serve in another also cause our own hearts to harden. church at a later time. There is a larger issue. How do we Restoration to Fellowship It is essential that the counselling select our leaders? Is it based on the The fallen leader is then restored to the process balances sternness and grace. Too characteristics mentioned in 1 Tim. 3:1– fellowship of believers. He may be many hurdles or red tape discourages the 13 and Titus 1:5–9, or based on personal required to stay away for a period of sincere person who wants to go through charisma? Sometimes churches are so time for reflection and intensive the process. In the end, rules cannot help eager to rush their wounded leaders back counselling, but he remains very much a anyone. The wisdom and discretion of to the frontline when there are so many part of the church. the restoration committee are what count. faithful believers in the pews who are qualified to take on the leadership. We Restoration to Ministry FURTHER THOUGHTS don’t want to “shoot the wounded” but In principle, no sin should forever In some real cases, a leader who had we really ought to require high moral preclude restoration to ministry, whether fallen from grace was not allowed to standards in the leadership. in the same church or elsewhere. If the return to the ministry. This could be due Having said the above, however, it fallen leader intends to be restored to to the extraordinary nature of the sin, or must be reiterated that no sin should in ministry, a way should be made for him. the attitude shown by the leader when principle bar a leader from ever returning The following is a typical process of the sin was being uncovered. to ministry. In fact, after a genuine and restoration to the ministry. A special In a recent much-publicised case, the painful process of repentance, the once- restoration committee is formed overseers decided on permanent fallen leader may become even more consisting of leadership inside and outside dismissal based on the second reason. effective. the church. This committee counsels the The lesson for all leaders is that trust, once fallen leader over a specified period of broken, is very difficult restore. LOVING ONE ANOTHER time, depending on the severity of the While from a divine point of view On the night of His betrayal, Jesus told sin committed, and makes periodic the fallen leader may later meet the criteria His disciples: “By this all men will know reports to the church’s main leadership. of total repentance, from a human point that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” (Jn. 13:35) This is what • FROM PREVIOUS PAGE encourage them, sponsor them and community is all about. The ultimate test make room for them. of all our talk is our walk in love. ours, is for the vitality and health of the Without doubt, unlike the current In conclusion, let us keep ourselves Church of Jesus Christ in the stock market situation, it is time to from sin, encourage others (especially our generations to come. “buy, buy, buy” as we seek to “buy leaders) towards holiness and be kind to It’s time to be practical. Let’s begin into” and invest in tomorrow’s those who fall. Who knows, someday to “just do it.” Believe in our youths, successors, today. we may need that grace too.

MARCH – APRIL 2007 Berita NECF •3 Toxic Leaders: How Not to Lead

Nobody starts out to be toxic. Neither does anyone aspire to be a toxic leader. Toxicity, like a wild gangrene, grows in us. It is a built-up trait. It thrives on chaotic environment. It surrounds itself with other toxic loyalists and kills off those who don’t follow their rules. In other words, toxic leaders can create hell on earth! In this first part of a two-part article, JOHN NG explores how one becomes a toxic leader.

“The spirit of an organisation is created at paraded on the stage with a Severe downsizing, the top.” ~ Peter Drucker 1 spotlight shining on the “special restructuring, mergers and one.” The others in the team acquisitions, fueled by an “We’re worshipful of top executives who pale into insignificance or at uncertain economy allow seem charismatic, visionary and tough. So most, serve as a supporting toxic leaders to thrive as they long as they’re lifting profits and stock cast. Toxic leaders believe that have no difficulty dealing prices, we’re willing to overlook that they they are the “special ones” and with the consequences of can also be callous, conning, manipulative, therefore untouchable. rapid change like chopping deceitful, verbally and psychologically “The psychopath has no off people, cooking the abusive, remorseless, exploitative, self- allegiance to the company at all, books, and displaying delusional, irresponsible and just to self. A psychopath is playing a uncouth behaviors. megalomaniacal. So we collude in the short-term parasitic game,” reports Paul Paul Babiak asserts, “Organisational elevation of leaders who are sadly Babiak, an industrial psychologist. chaos provides both the necessary insensitive to hurting others and They live on their followers and the stimulation for psychopathic thrill-seeking society at large.” followers on them. It becomes an and sufficient cover for psychopathic ~ Alan Deutschman 2 incestuous co-dependency. This leads to manipulation and abusive behavior.” the belief by their followers that they can Popularity and power have an do no wrong. Or even if they do, their Unchecked weakness – Blind intoxicating effect mistakes and misdemeanors are covered loyalty is rewarded Unfettered power and undeniable up or justified. “Anyway, who can be Although character flaws begin to surface popularity can condition a leader to perfect?” is the mantra for their coterie and loom large, this is often left believe in his own publicity. The road to of hangers-on. unchecked. In fact, their weakness is hell is paved with many good intentions. covered up by their strengths. Alan Most toxic leaders start off wanting to Crises serve and reinforce self- Deutschman reports that psychopathic make the world better. And they did so, belief and position bosses are typically likeable. at least initially. However, success and Crises often offer positive opportunities They make us believe that they fame eventually get into their heads. They for toxic leaders to thrive because they reciprocate loyalty and friendship. They become more powerful as their can crystallise the agenda to achieve focus have developed an actor’s expertise in followers, having tasted victory, entrust for accomplishing tasks. Bureaucratic evoking our empathy which makes it them with more and more power. Very obstacles can be bypassed in the name easier for them to “play” us. 6 soon, their popularity turns into grandiose of “survival.” Often leaders like to keep According to Michael Maccoby, a delusions and fame into infamy. their organisations in constant crisis mode psychotherapist, “They have an element so that they can perpetuate their powers, of emotional intelligence, of being able Self-centered Arrogance: Believing philosophy and policies. to see our emotions very clearly and that we can do no wrong In a cover story, “Is Your Boss A manipulate them.”7 When we realise that Peter Drucker warns, “The leader Psychopath?” Alan Deutschman, a senior they were conning us all along, we feel who basically focuses on himself or writer for FastCompany, writes, “There’s betrayed. herself is going to mislead. The three evidence that the business climate has With their consolidated power and most charismatic leaders in this century become more hospitable to psychopaths unchallenged authority, whistle blowers inflicted more suffering on the human in recent years.” And “…the New are very few in between. Loyalists are race than almost any trio in history: Hitler, Economy, with its rule-breaking and recognised and championed. Stalin and Mao.” 3 roller-coaster results, is just dandy for Pride is essentially self-centeredness folks with psychopathic traits.” 5 ???

4• Berita NECF MARCH – APRIL 2007 Hope in Malaysia The Right to Profess THE Celebration of Hope Malaysia (COHM) is an initiative of the Firstly, everyone is to practise his Malaysian Church together with By Lim Heng Seng religion peaceably and harmoniously; and BGEA to reach out to the community hen we talk about secondly, everyone must be permitted to with the love of Jesus. freedom of religion, practise his religion in peace and harmony, This 10-month project, which will we usually think about the that is, without unconstitutional culminate during Christmas season, is W right to profess and practice religion. compulsion or interference. based on the biblical model of That is right, but freedom of religion The right to practise one’s religion “Friends of Matthew”, where goes beyond that – it includes the right constitutes the active and participatory Matthew invited his friends to his house not to have a religion. aspects of the freedom of religion, for a meal while listening to Jesus. Just like a person cannot be subjected which includes the right to take part in Numerous churches under various against his wish or will to profess or to various forms of worship, prayer, denominations throughout Malaysia are belong in any religion, he cannot be observances, rites, ceremonies and participating in the project that will train, compelled to profess a religion. rituals. equip and mobilise individual However, this freedom (to have or Other elements of this right are: Christians to capitialise on the not to have a religion) applies only to those • The right to assemble and Christmas season to share Christ’s love. of the majority age (18 years and above). associate for religious purposes; The COHM office is located at 16A, Those below the majority age Jalan SS2/72, Petaling Jaya. come under the charge of their The contacts are: 7710 3721 (tel.); parents or guardians and are required and 7710 3750 (fax). by law to be subject to their guardians’ choice of religion. The right to profess a religion ???As a result, the toxic leaders’ growing includes the right to: believe or have weaknesses and corrupt schemes are left faith in a religion according to one’s unimpeded. conscience, declare openly and affirm by words or deeds one’s faith and John Ng, Ph.D, is the president of Meta HR allegiance to the religion of one’s & Communication, a ministry of Eagles choice. Communications Singapore. This article first Furthermore, the individual has appeared in the March 2006 issue of the right to wear some apparel – for MetaTrends, the organisation’s leadership example a “tudung” (headscarf) or a • The right publication. Printed with permission. symbol (a cross as a mark) – to show to free and fair access to the principal Next issue: Check your toxicity level that he is an adherent and a follower of scriptures, as well as other religious with these seven questions that particular religion. literature, is fundamental to the practice Other aspects of “profession of of religion; and Endnotes religion” include: • The right to own, publish and 1 Drucker, P. & Maciariello, 2004. J.A. The • Adopting a religion where the disseminate these literatures and the use Daily Drucker. HarperCollins Publishers, Inc. individual had no previous religious of modern media of communication is New York, NY. USA. convictions; an integral part of this right. 2 Deutschman, A. Is Your Boss A Psychopath? • Adopting another religion or However, all these are subject to Fast Company, July 2005 pp 46–51. changing one’s religion or converting to Article 11(5) which limits the exercise 3 Drucker, P. & Maciariello, 2004. J.A. The another religion of one’s conviction; and of religious freedom on three Daily Drucker. HarperCollins Publishers, Inc. • Assuming a new name which grounds: public order, public health New York, NY. USA. may have religious significance, or and morality. 4 Deutschman, A. Is Your Boss A Psychopath? abandoning and renouncing a former Fast Company, July 2005 pp 46–51. name which also has such significance. (Lim Heng Seng is the former chairman of the 5 Ibid. Article 3 of the Federal Constitution, Industrial Court and now a senior partner at a 6 Ibid. which guarantees citizens the freedom to legal firm. He is also a member of the NECF 7 Ibid practise their religion, has two aspects. Malaysia Religious Liberty Commission.)

MARCH – APRIL 2007 Berita NECF •5 Onward, children intercessors hildren are sensitive to God’s (Central); Elder Lim and Priscilla Ng voice and He will use them to (East Coast); Carol Perumal (South); Cbe His agents of transformation Mei Chan (); and Pat Wong in their homes, communities and the (). nation. That’s why He is actively raising The network set several objectives, them for the ministries of intercession, some of which are: praise and worship, healing and prophecy. • To bring awareness and passion for And because they have the same Holy raising children in prayer through participants apologised to the children for Spirit that resides in adults, they have the equipping and mentoring; and neglecting them and failing to follow same potential to do great exploits for • To identify and link with existing through their calling. The children God. Participants shared this conviction organisations/ministries that work with responded by apologising for being at the recent Children In Prayer National children. disobedient and not recognising the love Consultation in Baru after hearing At the start of the consultation, Ann that God had given in their lives. There the reports from various ministries shared the need to raise awareness and was hardly a dry eye during this time of targeted at children, such as Viva passion on the role of children in renewal. Network, Esther Network and Grace intercession. Commenting on the consultation, one Manna House. Speaker Pr Sam Phun then spoke participant said it was an eye-opener to About 90 people involved in about the importance of knowing our learn that children are a big part of the ministries to children attended the children well enough to be able to reach Church and members of the Body of consultation organised by the NECF out to them. “What is required is work, Christ; they have the same Holy Spirit and Malaysia Prayer Commission. They mentoring, prayer and uncompromising gifts that adults have. Another delegate concurred that both the Church and faithfulness to God’s call in raising a new who found the consultation an eye-opener parents have a crucial role in efforts to generation for His end-time purposes,” is Tan Phaik Hoon from Viva Network, raise “praying and worshipping children”. he said. who was amazed at the way God is And to help the Church and parents The consultation closed with a time moving to raise children as powerful in their efforts, they agreed to form a of commissioning and anointing for all partners in His work. National Children’s Prayer Network participants as they sought God for Perhaps the best comment came under NECF., and led by its Executive direction in the task ahead – to inspire, from Carmen Chew, 12, who said, “I Secretary (Prayer), Ann Low, as National develop and mobilise children to pray. wish there was more time to learn about Coordinator. Some children were present at the God. The time you gave us to learn is Regional heads were also appointed. consultation and there was a meaningful too little because this is such a useful and They are: Pr Mei Soon (North); Lei Wah time of repentance as the adult interesting meeting.”

Central Region Prayer Consultation should engage themselves in the nation’s Third Prayer Network Formed affairs. Engaging the government is a AMID the troubles in this land, God’s in February, attended by 51 delegates necessary part of our Christian people have been entrusted with the from 34 churches in the central region responsibility, he stressed. Sadly, most responsibility to gather to share, consult, (Selangor, Wilayah and ). Christians are apathetic towards politics pray and strategise. And as the country He shared NECF’s vision, which is because they consider it dirty. faces increasing internal and external to unite the Body of Christ for a He also cautioned intercessors not to threats, there is now great urgency to pray transformed nation. The consultation, be “triumphalistic” but to get “down to for the nation. organised by the commission, aims to earth”. In his conclusion, he exhorted, “God is interested in nations and He mobilise churches to network and pray “Powerful movements begin with has changed the course of nations as to achieve the vision. people, small groups of men and history has shown. I believe our nation Keynote speaker NECF Secretary- women, who are willing to tithe their too can change,” said Rev. Andy Chi. General Rev. Wong Kim Kong talked time and abilities outside their own The chairman of the NECF Malaysia about the national challenges, particularly scope of ministry. Prayer Commission was speaking at the religious activism, and pointed to the first Central Region Prayer Consultation book of Esther to show how Christians ???

6• Berita NECF MARCH – APRIL 2007 Joni to Join Celebration in Malaysia oni Eareckson Tada, the plucky lady who has inspired millions all over the world with her life and books, will be Jcoming to Malaysia in July to grace NECF Malaysia’s 25th anniversary. Renowned throughout the world as the indomitable quadriplegic who paints by holding a brush in her mouth, Joni is founder and CEO of Joni and Friends, an organisation aimed at accelerating Christian ministry in the disabled community. She has written over 35 books, some of which are Tell Me The Truth, A Victory Through Sufffering, Heaven…Your Real Home, and Life and Death Dilemma, and her international best-selling autobiography, Joni. She also co-authored When God Weeps: to a presidential appointment to the National Council on Why Our Sufferings Matter to the Almighty (co-authored by Steve Disability for three and a half years, during which time the Estes), a book that systematically examines the mystery of Americans with Disabilities Act became law. In 2005, Joni suffering. Eareckson Tada was appointed to the Disability Advisory Joni’s life as a quadriplegic started in 1967 after a diving Committee of the U.S. State Department. accident. During her two years of rehabilitation, she spent Joni has received numerous awards, including The American long months learning how to paint with a brush between her Academy of Achievement’s Golden Plate Award and Gold Medallion teeth. Her fine art paintings and prints are sought after and Lifetime Achievement Award by the Evangelical Christian collected. After the two-year rehabilitation, Joni re-entered Publishers Association. She is also the first woman to be the community with new skills and a fresh determination to honoured by the National Association of Evangelicals as their help others in similar situations. “Layperson of the Year.” Joni’s work has mainly focused on influencing the church Joni is married to Ken Tada, who in 2001 received the on disability-related issues. However, her impact is felt beyond Family Life Ministries’ Robertson McQuilken Award honouring the Christian community. Her role as a disability advocate led “The Courageous Love of a Marriage Covenant Keeper.”

Joni will be speaking at the following meetings organised by NECF: • NECF anniversary banquet on July 30 (Monday) night at Dewan PGRM, ; • National Pastors and Leaders Consultation on July 31 (Tuesday); and • NECF public meeting on July 31 night.

???Our barometer of success before the delegates agreed to form a central prayer Lord is when local churches gather to network aimed at building relationships pray and members tithe to this cause. This and mobilising prayer in the region. will not be an individual success but a State coordinators were appointed, corporate success, and the favour of God being Dr Chan Geok Oon for Perak; will be on His people.” Jeremiah Gun (assisted by Leong Dai During the consultation, May) for Selangor; and Pr Looi Kok representatives from various towns in the Khim (assisted by Pr Rennie Tan and Pr states shared the challenges their towns Josephine Lu) for Wilayah. are facing. They then broke into small This is the third regional prayer groups for intercession. They also prayed consultation, the first two being the BLOWN AWAY... Ling Bek Sing, senior for locations which do not have any northern and southern peninsular regions. pastor of High Praise Ipoh and Church of church or whose churches have less than The commission is currently Sitiawan, was blown away by the surprise birthday celebration the delegates gave him at 20 Christians (listing compiled from the planning the fourth consultation for East the consultation. Strengthening relationship is Department of Statistics). Coast churches and hopes to establish a a high priority for the prayer leaders and intercessors. At the end of the consultation, the national prayer network by year end.

MARCH – APRIL 2007 Berita NECF •7 Currentfor your prayersConcerns No need for to the Syariah Appeal Court to exercise RM5 million for releasing three its supervisory and revisionary powers Emergency Ordinance detainees. consent of non- to make a ruling on the legality of the Commenting on the latter case, Muslim spouse husband’s application on grounds that the Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri syariah court lacked jurisdiction and that Musa Hassan said, “We cannot say the A Muslim convert can make an she was a non-Muslim. allegation is baseless until the probe is application to the syariah court to convert Sri Ram said the syariah courts only completed. There has been a lot of his/her underage children without the have jurisdiction over persons professing finger-pointing which has led to some consent of the non-Muslim spouse the Islamic faith and added that the confusion.” (NST, Mar 5) (NST, Mar 14). In a landmark ruling on Islamic Family Law (Federal Territories) On the ACA chief’s case, Minister in the case of R. Subashini, the Court of Act 1984 conferred jurisdiction on the the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Appeal also held that a non-Muslim syariah court over matrimonial matters Seri said, married to a person who has converted only where all parties to the proceedings “Under our judiciary system, a man is to Islam has to seek remedy in the syariah were Muslims. innocent until proven guilty and he’s not court over family matters. “It would therefore appear that in the found guilty by the newspapers but by However, the three Court of Appeal present case the syariah court has no the courts of law.” (, Mar 2) judges were divided in their opinions, with jurisdiction as the husband (Shafi) is a The most assuring comments came Datuk Gopal Sri Ram taking the Muslim while the wife, a Hindu.” from the Prime Minister who, when dissenting view. Judges Datuk Suriyadi He said the Law Reform (Marriage commenting on the two cases, said, Halim Omar and Datuk Hasan Lah and Divorce) Act 1976 gave the High “…people and we (the top leaders) want dismissed with costs the appeal of Court the jurisdiction to hear a wife’s a clean, good and corruption-free Subashini, 28, a company secretary, who petition despite the husband converting Government and an administration that wanted an injunction to restrain her to Islam. The injunction sought by provides high quality and excellent husband, Muhammad Shafi Saravanan Subaashini was only against the husband services.” Abdullah, 30, a businessman, from: i) and not the syariah court, and as such, Pray for transparency, integrity, converting their two children, Dharvin the High Court had erred in law in not courage and fairness on the part of the Joshua, 3, and one-year-old Sharvind to giving Subshini the relief she had sought. police as they investigate these two cases Islam; and ii) commencing any The judges’ varied opinions once (and all other cases). The authorities will proceeding in any syariah court with again highlight the urgent need to clarify live up to the words of Datuk Seri Nazri, regard to their civil marriage. the laws. Pray for justice for those who “The law should apply equally to Subashini is appealing to the Federal are caught in cases such as this, and for everyone, regardless of his position.” (The Court against the Court of Appeal’s the authorities, particularly the Attorney- Star, Mar 2) decision. General, to act quickly and decisively to Suriyadi said from the Islamic point solve the many issues arising from our Education system of view, the marriage between Shafi and dual legal system. (Read also statement overhaul Subshini had ended upon his conversion on page 12 for further information.) The National Education Blueprint that and the next step was a formal was unveiled in January is another effort dissolution of the marriage. Corruption watch to overhaul our national education system Hasan said the Law Reform Police are investigating two top leaders – something that has been recognised, (Marriage and Divorce) Act 1976 gave for corruption after allegations against and presumably admitted, by many to Subshini the right to apply to the High them were posted on the Internet. be one of our major challenges in the Court but the civil court could not issue ACA director-general Datuk Seri 21st century. a stay order (under the Specific Relief Zulkipli Mat Noor is accused of being We know what needs to be fixed, the Act 1950) on matters involving the syariah involved in immoral and criminal question now is whether there is enough court. “The wife is therefore in a catch- activities, but police are probing whether desire to push through and implement 22 situation. But she has a recourse under he declared his assets. Deputy Internal this “blueprint of collective wisdom”, as a provision in the Administration of Security Minister Datuk Mohd Johari Zainul Arrifin said in his column in The Islamic Law (Federal Territories) Act,” he Baharum is being investigated over New Straits Times on Jan 24. said, adding that Subashini could apply allegations that he had received more than He raised the question: Will there be

8• Berita NECF MARCH – APRIL 2007 Currentfor your prayersConcerns enough people – and may we add, the Temperatures rising that Malaysia follows the guidelines political will - who would be willing to provided by the International Council for compromise racial, religious and political Our highlands are warming up, with Local Environmental Initiatives to reduce interests for the greater good? temperatures there rising between 2ºC damage to the environment. The Let’s pray earnestly for our leaders to and 3ºC in the last 25 years due to the guidelines include six “cooling” policies have the political will and the courage to clearing of forests and over-development that will help bring down temperatures push through the necessary changes that (The Star, 26 Feb). Global Environment in the cities. Pray for the authorities to will help towards building future citizens Centre (GEC) director Faizal Parish said heed the warning and recommendations who are respectful of each other’s the clearing of trees had resulted in a of the experts. differences, and who are ready to face a “microclimate change”, which means a Meanwhile, Asean has finally come up globalised world. As Zainul cautioned, climate change within that area. Faizal said wih a tangible plan to fight the region’s ”The generations ahead will reap, or trees cooled the air around them and annual haze problem after 11 years of suffer, by our deeds.” added that one big tree is the equivalent countless meetings (The Star, Mar 5). to 10 air conditioners. Singapore and Malaysia will help Sports and youths “While 1ºC or 2ºC does not sound Indonesia in, among other things, Sports is probably the best remedy to like much, these small changes can cause executing methods of land clearing counter drug abuse and social ills among major changes in the rainfall and weather without burning and managing different youths, according to Youth and Sports patterns, which in turn can affect crops,” types of land. Minister Datuk . he said. Praise God for this as the yearly haze Statistics show there are over 12,000 Another report said that Kuala has caused much distress for many, new dug addicts in 2005, of which over Lumpur, , Johor Baru and especially those in the Klang Valley. Pray 8,500 are Malays. are 5ºC hotter than other cities for an inceased awareness on the need to Meanwhile a UKM survey on 887 in the country (The Star, Mar 6). care for our environment. troubled schoolgirls has found all but one This is due to the rapid development of them have had sex. The three-month and the lack of trees. The nights are also Traffic police High Risk Female Youth Profile Study, hotter due to the concrete surfaces and Motorcyclists form the majority of those which ended last December, took 20 grounds covered with tar and tiles which who died in road accidents, according problem schoolgirls aged between 15 trap heat during the day and release it to Federal traffic chief Senior Asst and 16 from each school in a state. during the night. Comm (II) Datuk Nooryah Md Anvar. A local daily reported that it is Drainage and Irrigation Department To check this problem, she has directed believed the study was initiated by the deputy director-general (I) Ahmad Fuad her staff to conduct frequent roadblocks Selangor state government who wanted Embi said that low-maintenance plants to nab offenders. to formulate a special training module such as palms, instead of trees that She also issued a directive to her to promote high moral values among the provide more shade, do not help to cool officers to seize motorcycles without girls based on the study. temperatures. road tax and insurance and if the riders Apart from sex, the study also The temperature of the “concrete” do not have licences. The efforts has showed that most of the respondents cities can hit 40ºC, a contributing factor begun to pay off as deaths of took drugs, indulged in pornography, and to global warming that brings about motorcyclists have been halved from a were involved in secret societies, heavy rain and flash floods. daily average of 10. vandalism and truancy. Climate change has caused Traffic police also conducted a Most of them were poor in their environmental disasters that have struck massive roadblock exercise on Feb 24 academic achievements, communication the world over. Malaysia has not been midnight and within 24 hours, they skills, had low self-esteem and lacked spared, as the recent devastating floods rounded up 5,000 motorcyclists in Kuala problem-solving skills. in Johore have proven. Pray that our Lumpur, Ipoh, and Selangor. Pray firstly that our Christian youths leaders will look seriously into the ill Pray for the traffic police, especially will be a good role model to society. Ptay effects of haphazard development and for their chief Nooryah, as they work for churches and Christian parents to take stern measures to guard the diligently to keep public roads safe. Pray exercise their responsibilities in nurturing environment. also that firm action will be taken against godly youths. Ahmad Fuad has also recommended corrupt traffic police.

MARCH – APRIL 2007 Berita NECF •9 By Rev. Loh Soon Choy, M.Th. prays and walks with God” and “a (or university) for producing personal experiential knowledge of God “unemployable graduates”. But for the he Rev. Howard Peskett, and His Word” – to the bad press and seminary/university to follow the dictates former Dean of the negative images that these two terms have of the Church/State uncritically is to ? Discipleship Training acquired in modern times in too many forfeit its intellectual and prophetic witness Centre, Singapore, discussed the epidemic circles. It is sufficient to know that, as in to the sanctity and unity of all truth. Yet search for doctorates in America.1 Peskett all disciplines and professions, we can seek not to relate closely to the Church makes also mentioned a proposal that combined to “reclaim theology from the the Seminary an irrelevant ivory tower the appetite for degrees with the search theologians” by our integrity and passion without a pastoral base. Such confusions for equality: to award doctorates to for God and the truth, and for our and tensions are reflected in the three areas everyone at birth! present context. below: The above sentiments are not entirely What has been happening in • The current pastoral theology and frivolous as theological educators and Afghanistan, the Middle East and practices, church leadership and students are all too aware that many elsewhere since the infamous Sept 11 management. theological courses need to be improved, bombing seems to have further hardened • The well-intentioned but somewhat re-written and re-packaged. Such a crisis the perception that - whether in indiscriminate proliferation of has in turn produced an epidemic search Christendom or in Islam – “theologians” independent or local church-based and for credentials and degrees, if not for (especially of the fundamentalist variety) Christian NGO-sponsored theological or ‘paper qualifications’, or some form of are dangerous or irrelevant. Bible schools and institutes. Too many training that is relevant and immediately In actual fact, such events could be of these are not accredited by any useful to a pragmatically purpose-driven used to demonstrate the opposite claim: credible national or international church. the very failure to critically reflect and education or theological body. ????????????????????? ??????

Such a scenario reflects the theologise properly, leading to the • The epidemic quest for diplomas, misunderstanding of the purpose and possibility of not only ultra-fundamental bachelor’s, masters and doctoral degrees. function of theological education among Islamic groups like the Talibans or Al- Degrees are not necessarily indicative church leaders, as well as the shortcomings Qaeda, but also the ultra-right wing, of quality training. Hence the joke among of many theological institutions Bible-thumping “evangelicals” who have many is that the church can “die by themselves. This is especially true when been nicknamed “Christian Talibans”. At degrees”, or that Jesus (or the prophets, they become more ‘market driven’ to another level, without theological the 12 disciples, or John the Baptist) never produce more graduates to serve the reflection, we can also see that if there had a degree. Two decades ago, a churches and to upgrade their are some Muslims who are blindly pro- Christian NGO leader boasted that the programmes the way some businesses Arab and all things Arab, there are also only degree needed was “P.E.” – Personal ‘upgrade’ their brands! some Christians who are blindly pro- Experience or otherwise “P.H.D.” – We need not here trace the rise and Israel and all things Jewish. Preaching, Healing and Deliverance. decline of theological and education We should note that there is more Today, Malaysian Christian leaders, institutions from the early church unity or tolerance among churches now, including those from the independent monastic movements through the as among the major seminaries, but there churches, are more conscious of the need medieval cathedral schools and universities are continuing tensions between Church for more than just “P.E.”. Their issues that made theology the queen of the and Seminary. This is tragic, although it is with regards theological training are with sciences. We also do not need to trace paralleled by the tensions between the relevance, duration, stream (evangelical or the developments that the terms State and the University (“Town and charismatic – today both words need “theologian” and “theology” underwent Gown”). The two respective pairs of qualification) and etc. from initially in the early monastic entities ought to work together. Instead, tradition – respectively as “a man who the Church (or State) accuses the Seminary ???

10• Berita NECF MARCH – APRIL 2007 by a variety of theological institutions, initiatives and ??? consortiums in a variety of ways. These include Many can see or sense that since the sometimes, as an over-generous transfer of Reformation, not only has the Word of God credits and other provisions to customise gone back to the laity, but also the Ministry of programmes and courses to fit the the Word such as preaching and teaching in the prospective candidate’s past experience and Church – as well as the Sacraments, including achievements, in order to grant them the marrying and the burying of the dead in non- advanced or mature standing that they may denominational, independent churches – in line be the more speedily accredited or equipped with their view of the priesthood of believers. for the church. Such a desire to produce results Besides being the new clergy in church, they in the guise of producing qualified or certified are also multi-gifted high-income professionals or church workers have made some church schools do away corporate figures in the marketplace. with exams and written assignments. In other instances, students In the past, “ordinary” males go into church work, and the are seldom failed. “cleverer” ones, if they love the Lord, dominate in the larger God’s work done in God’s way – like Elijah’s or Samuel’s “Kingdom work” outside the church in Christian and secular Schools of prophets of old – will never be irrelevant. NGOs and volunteer social concern ministries. The Church belongs to Him. Theological education and its Today, these gifted articulate market-place leaders and future are for the Church and the advancement of His Kingdom. professionals dominate in the church and are the church board Even if the above confusion and tensions amount to a crisis, or council members, especially in the non-denominational, newer each crisis carries an opportunity and challenge – even in the independent or “emerging” churches. Some are lay-pastors context of our multi-cultural, multi-religious society with Islam themselves. as the official and dominant religion, rampant materialism, Many can even be suspicious of traditional seminary-trained modern and post-modern challenges. or ordained ministers. This is natural but unfortunate, coming We may not always be able to respond to the external socio- as they often do from the corporate world. This situation can political challenges, but we can certainly try to manage two lead to the corporatisation of the church. categorical, internal or institutional, challenges within our Church- While some leaders still place emphasis on their “P.E.”, seminary Christian community. including their achievements and networks, they can also be seduced by such advertisements as “experience is important, This extract is contributed by the NECF Malaysia Research Commission. but degrees do help” (to open further doors? to gain further Read the full article in the Watchmen Forum V book entitled “A Spiritual credibility, especially in the target circle or field of service, such Healthcheck of the Church in Malaysia”, available from NECF at RM12 as in church and Christian work local or overseas? and hopefully per copy. See below for more information. not just to go on an ego trip!). Endnotes With the above factors and influences combined, we can 1 Howard Peskett, “Tweedle D. D./Tweedle D. Dum” in Eternity magazine, see why there is such a variety of degrees and awards offered June 1978 issue. How healthy is the Church in Malaysia? of the American Church, which has in many ways infected the world with a very shallow hat are the current issues that the Christian experience. You describe it as WMalaysian Church is grappling individualism, where I see it as a primary with? Find out from this book published narcissism of the (especially charismatic) wing by the NECF Malaysia Research of the Church in America. Commission. The fifth in the We have exported growth for the sake of commission’s Watchmen Forum series, growth, magic vs maturity in Christ. Having a the book covers topics ranging from focus on spiritual formation or discipleship is a spirituality to Christian education to the key to reverse the lack in many congregations. environment. Thanks for exposing this problem, and may God give you and key leaders of the Malaysian Feedback from a reader in the Church grace to reverse the self absorption of U.S.A via e-mail the church at large.” –Stan Stan E. DeKoven, “Very impressed by the articles. It was Ph.D., President, Vision International Education hard for me not to want to repent on behalf Network, California, USA.

MARCH – APRIL 2007 Berita NECF •11 Government must safeguard

MCCBCHST Press Statement rights of all Malaysians

n the wake of the majority decision of the Court of Appeal to her problem, the majority ruled that Subashini, a non-Muslim, in the case of Saravanan A/L Thangathony v. Subashini A/ must apply to the Syariah Court, instead of applying to the IP Rajasingam [Rayuan Sivil No. W-02-955-2006] we, the High Court. Of particular concern to us is the statement by YA Malaysian Consultative Council of Buddhism, Christianity, Dato’ Hasan Lah, JCA, that the High Court and the Syariah Hinduism, Sikhism and Taoism (MCCBCHST), are greatly Court must be regarded as having the same standing in this disappointed that once again, the non-converting non-Muslim country. wife of a convert to Islam has failed to get relief from our We are also concerned to note that the grounds of Civil Courts. judgment of the learned YA Datuk Suriyadi Halim Omar, JCA, Hitherto, in the case of S. Shamala, she was told by the High quoted a verse from the Quran and appeared to be elevating Court that it had no jurisdiction to declare as unlawful her young the role and prominence of Islamic law and the Islamic judicial children’s conversion into Islam without her knowledge or system in Malaysia. consent and was advised to seek the assistance of the Islamic We would respectfully remind members of the Judiciary authorities. Following that, the widow of Everest hero, the late that the Federal Court, Court of Appeal and the High Courts Sgt. M. Moorthy, also failed to get relief from the High Court in Malaya and in Sabah and Sarawak are all civil courts and on the ground of jurisdiction. Judges of those courts take an oath of office to uphold the Following an uproar from civil society, the Right Honorable Federal Constitution, which guarantees non-Muslims the Prime Minister declared that although Article 121(1A) of the fundamental liberty of professing and practising their faiths in Constitution would not be amended, laws will be amended to peace and harmony. remedy the situation. Though it has been more than a year since It is very clear and specific in the State legislative list in the 9th then, there have been no amendments to any law as yet to Schedule of the Federal Constitution that the “Syariah Courts clarify the jurisdiction of the Courts. We regret that our Civil … shall have jurisdiction only over persons professing the religion Courts have continued to fail in their constitutional duty to protect of Islam …”. The learned Judges in the majority appear to the rights of all Malaysians, including non-Muslims, as can be note that requirement in their judgments, but with respect, appear seen in this latest case. to contradict themselves by then requiring the non-Muslim wife In Subashini’s case, the husband converted to Islam and to go to the Syariah courts. converted the elder son, aged 3, to Islam without the wife’s We express our objection to any requirement for non- knowledge or consent. The husband then applied to the Syariah Muslims to have to go to the Syariah Court for relief as such Court for custody of the son, again with no notice to the wife. courts apply Islamic theological law. Religious laws cannot be The wife then presented a petition for divorce and ancillary applied to people who do not profess that religion. The Court relief and applied to the High Court for an injunction restraining of Appeal in this case and civil courts are expanding Article the husband from (i) converting the children of the marriage to 121(1A) of the Federal Constitution. Islam, and (ii) commencing or continuing with any proceedings We are also concerned that Syariah Courts are usurping in any Syariah Court with regard to the marriage or the children functions which are not theirs. Consequently, non-Muslims are of the marriage. The High Court initially granted an injunction unable to obtain relief when the Syariah Court makes an order after hearing only the wife, who at that time did not know of which interferes with their fundamental liberties guaranteed by the substance of her husband’s applications in the Syariah courts. the Federal Constitution. The Federal Constitution is the supreme This injunction was continued whilst the case was heard in law of Malaysia. Our highest court had declared in the case of the High Court. After the husband submitted his evidence, and Che Omar bin Che Soh v. P.P. (1988) 2 MLJ 55 that Article 3 of after the High Court heard both parties, it refused to give the the Constitution was never intended to extend the application injunction. However, the High Court granted an interim of Syaria to the sphere of public law. injunction to the wife pending the hearing of an appeal to the We object to any interpretation of our Constitution or our Court of Appeal, known as an “Erinford Injunction”. laws that deprive any person of his fundamental liberties, and The majority decision of the Court of Appeal dismissed deny access to a non-Muslim to the High Court applying the the wife’s appeal and set aside the Erinford Injunction with general civil law. cost, effectively shutting the door on Subashini’s rights as a We urgently call on the Government to immediately pass mother to prevent the Syariah court making a determination as laws to safeguard the rights of all Malaysians, so as to ensure to her marriage and as to the custody of her children. To add non-Muslims have full and proper access to justice.

12• Berita NECF MARCH – APRIL 2007 East Malaysia BM Leaders Conference

? PLACE: MIRI, SARAWAK ? PLACE: RANAU, SABAH ? DATE: May 8–10 ? DATE: May 15–17 ? FEE: Fee: RM90 before April 8 and RM120 thereafter ? FEE: RM90 before April 15 and RM120 thereafter (fee covers accommodation, meals and materials) (fee covers accommodation, meals and materials) • Speakers: Rev. Dr Nus Reimas (Chairman of the • Speakers: Rev. Dr Bambang Widjaya (former chairman Indonesia Evangelical Fellowship), Rev. Dr Herbert Tan of the Indonesia Evangelical Fellowship and currently an (Leadership Development Consultant at Malaysia advisor to the fellowship), Rev. Dr Herbert Tan and Campus Crusade for Christ) and Alfred Tais (NECF Alfred Tais Malaysia Executive Secretary for the BM Commission) • Contact: Pr George Mikil (013-860 8285), Bernard Yong • Contact: Pr Peter Mutang (013-812 9922); or (019-812 3399) or Cathrine Pondong (019-830 2589) Pr Robin Ato (013- 814 0028)

LEADERSHIP is not just about position but influence. Effective Both conferences are jointly organised by NECF and the leaders are able to influence their members to accomplish Ranau Council of Churches and Pusat SIB Sarawak. God’s will for the church and their lives. How does one Immediately after the conferences, a one-day consultation become an effective leader? This conference will address will be held where the speakers and leaders will discuss this question and many more. Pastors, church leaders and the challenges facing their churches and brainstorm ways ministry workers are urged to attend. to overcome them.

CFM: Guarantee non-Muslims Preserving heritage of right to find justice in civil courts religious buildings he Christian Federation of Malaysia views with great concern LIKE the recent decision of the Court of Appeal in the case of other buildings, church T buildings or other religious buildings Subashini v. Saravanan, where she, although a non-Muslim, was urged can be designated as a heritage site if to submit to the jurisdiction of the Syariah courts to seek recourse they have natural heritage or cultural from the break-up of her family, when her husband converted to heritage significance. Islam. It is troubling to note, and indeed of great concern to all This is covered in the Malaysians, that what is clearly stated in the Federal Constitution, National Heritage Act (Act 645) that the Syariah courts shall have jurisdiction only over persons which was gazetted on Dec 31, professing the religion of Islam [Schedule 9, List 11 (1)], is now 2005, and came into effect on Mar 1, 2006. being extended, by the court decision, to include non-Muslims. provides for the creation of a National Heritage The Christian Federation of Malaysia respects the Federal The Act Register which can be inspected by the members of Constitution to be the supreme law of the country [Art 4 (1)], and the public. This register will be administered by the therefore, it must guarantee the right of all non-Muslim Malaysian newly-created National Heritage Department under citizens to find justice served in the civil courts of the country. the Ministry, which is headed by the Heritage In view of this development, the Christian Federation of Malaysia Commissioner, Prof. Dato’ Siti Zuraina Abdul Majid. joins with all other likeminded Malaysians in raising our concern to Find out more about how you can play a role in the government. Decisions like this impact negatively on the social nominating sites to be included in the register. You fabric of Malaysia. may read the Act on the We therefore, call on all elected members of Parliament to do website – www.parlimen.gov.my everything within their means to defend our Constitution, and to The act can also be purchased from the safeguard the right of non-Muslim citizens to find remedy and Government Printers at RM13.50 a copy. justice in the civil courts in matters pertaining to civil rights and liberties.

MARCH – APRIL 2007 Berita NECF •13 Selangor

Due to its rapid economic growth, Selangor is currently the richest, most populous, industrialised and urbanised state in Malaysia. It has the second highest GDP per capita (after Penang) and was declared the first developed state in Malaysia in August 2005. ?

STATISTICS (MALAYSIA guaranteed by the Federal Constitution. STATISTICS DEPARTMENT, 2005) The overzealousness of the religious Population: 4,736,100 (est.) officers and some religious enthusiasts has Ethnic groups: Malay 50.73%, Other distressed the non-Muslims in the state. Bumiputera 1.46%(Temuan, Mah-Meri), Chinese 28.07%, Indian 13.45%, Others Even before the controversial Moorthy 1.04%, Non-citizens 5.25% (Indonesian, court case was resolved, another tussle Offences Enactment 1995 forbids Myanmarese, Bangladeshi, Nepali, Filipino, for a dead body arose in Banting last July. conversion out of Islam to avoid Indian, Vietnamese, Chinese) Religious Breakdown (2000): Discovering that the MyKad of deceased punishment. While the state’s Islam 55.7%, Buddhism 24.4%, Hinduism Kandasamy S. had the word ‘Islam’, the Administration of the Religion of Islam 12.1%, Christianity 4.3%, Taoism/ Confucianism 2.0%, Tribal 0.3%, Others 0.4%, police removed the body from Banting Enactment 2003 has no provision for a No Religion 0.5%, Unknown 0.3% Hospital mortuary with no regards for Muslim to convert out, Section Incidence of poverty (2004): 1.0%, the feelings of his non-Muslim family 61(3)(b)(x) & (xi) of the enactment gives Hardcore 0.2% members. JAIS later declared the the Syariah High Court the jurisdiction elangor is about the most modern deceased a non-Muslim due to lack of to declare whether a person (living or and “Westernised” state; however, evidence. dead) is a Muslim or not. Sthe rise of religious extremism is The latest scramble over deceased Regardless of the constitutional worrying. While religious freedom (Article Rayappan A. last December brought guarantee to the right to propagate, the 11 of the Federal Constitution) is great embarrassment to the religious state religious authorities have since 1988 generally respected, it is restricted02 to authorities. Following an uproar, the placed certain restrictions by ratifying the those who do not profess the Islamic Prime Minister intervened and the claim Non-Islamic Religions (Control of faith. was eventually withdrawn but not without Propagation Amongst Muslims) The Selangor Religious Affairs disparaging remarks from both the Enactment. Department (JAIS) closely monitors Muslim and non-Muslim communities. Last May, JAIS claimed that Christian deviationist teachings and groups that are The Malaysia Hindu Sangam stated and Buddhist missionary groups had, in deemed ‘heretical.’ Those found guilty are in its June 2006 press statement, “The the guise of social services, spread their sent to the Ulu Yam rehabilitation centre. non-Muslim community now does not teachings to Muslim patients in several Cigarette smoking was decreed haram know when the Islamic authorities will hospitals. It ‘counterattacked’ by launching (forbidden) by the Selangor Fatwa claim that one of our family members is the ‘Rakan Masjid’ programme to Council in 1995 (www.e-fatwa.gov.my); a Muslim.” encourage Muslim evangelists to frequent and it is a crime to violate a gazetted fatwa Minister in the Prime Minister’s hospitals (.com). (Islamic decree). Such decree was seen department, Datuk Dr Maximus Ongkili, by many as downright unrealistic. It has said that Selangor registered second Corruption so far not been enforced. In 1995, the highest (after Penang) in the number of Several issues in the last two years have council issued a fatwa banning Muslim cases involving social and religious given the state government a bad name. women from participating in beauty conflicts (The Star, Jan. 17). The public has oftentimes decried its contests. In recent years, several secondary ineffectiveness and the absence of In 1997, JAIS arrested three Muslim schools’ Christian fellowships have been transparency and sense of priorities for girls for taking part in the Miss Malaysia closed down when new, overzealous public interests. The Selangor Petite contest. The incident drew intense principals took over. Development Corporation (PKNS) criticism from several quarters stating that continues to be seen as gravely lacking in the arrest violated fundamental principles Conflicts of laws accountability. of democracy and fundamental liberties Section 5 of the Syariah Criminal ???

14• Berita NECF MARCH – APRIL 2007 PRAY FOR Last October, the Klang Municipal Council was heavily • State Government ??? : Transparency, integrity and impartiality for criticised for appointing three members of a family as municipal menteri besar and all local authorities in governance; councillors. The public fumed when Mentri Besar Dato’ Seri Effectiveness and competence in all policy Dr Mohamed Khir Toyo said there was nothing wrong in implementations; Wise financial management and good that. Action was, however, taken after the Sultan and the PM stewardship; Give priority to public interest and wellbeing; intervened. Committed to poverty eradication; Implement appropriate development plans without affecting the poor and the The MB later admitted that the system was flawed as it environment; and remove corrupt officials. allowed law breakers to become councillors (The Sun, Nov. 15, • Religious freedom provided by the Constitution be upheld 2006) and thus opened doors for misdemeanour and dishonesty. and respected by all; sensible religious authorities; against The appalling fact was that three Klang councillors flouted the the spirit behind religious zealots. laws by building lavish mansions without approval, in defiance • Orang Asli be accorded just treatment and dignity of the Town and Country Planning Act 1974. They were fined • Decrease in crime as a result of public protest, but were not disciplined for insulting • Sense of civic consciousness and environmental local government regulations. cleanliness in the communities; public health awareness Local authorities continue to be criticised for disregarding to reduce disease-related illnesses (e.g. dengue). public views. The de-gazetting of the green lung of Bukit Gasing • The Church: despite residents’ objection is one example. The authorities’ – Unity (Kingdom-minded, Christ-centred churches) weaknesses have also contributed to problems such as – Awareness of challenges facing the Church and wisdom environmental damages. The approval of hill-slope to address them – Effective role in issues affecting the community, excels developments in violation of guidelines has caused damage to for God in marketplace, passion in rural outreaches. the Bukit Cahaya Seri Alam agricultural park and reserve in Shah Alam. Experts have also linked flood in certain parts of Shah Alam to uncontrolled and irresponsible development. Public confidence in the local authorities is thus wearing the residents, with crying children, stood in the rain in despair. It thin. Meanwhile, the MB has consistently declared that “no one was also reported that 21 residents and activists were detained is above the law.” Recently, at the state government employees’ for hampering the demolition process. monthly meeting, he reportedly advocated transparency and accountability as two of the four principles of state governance. Others The other two were comprehensive participation of all According to the National Crime Index, the first seven months stakeholders and predictability (, Jan 15). When four of 2006 saw a sharp rise in crime in the state (second highest gambling dens near the Sekinchan police station were exposed, after Penang). The state also topped the list of suspected dengue he immediately transferred the Sabak Bernam district council cases with a total of 656 cases reported in the second week of president and ordered action against the Ampang Jaya January. enforcement officers for negligence of duties. The Church Neglecting the poor It has been said that sizable English-speaking churches with The Selangor gvernment, in its ambitious pursuit for marketing savvy and hi-tech cum feel-good worship are found development, has neglected the wellbeing of the poor, the Orang in the Klang Valley. They are financially well off, have the capacity Asli in particular. For example, the Temuan families were to operate various ministries with attractive evangelistic activities deprived of home due to the state’s acquisition of their land in and the ability to organise seminars featuring internationally Bukit Tampoi (in Dengkil) to build a highway. The Shah Alam renowned speakers. High Court’s judgement favoured the Temuan and ordered In other words, they are self-sufficient. However, the majority the state government to pay compensation. of the churches in Selangor are modest. Though small in size, The ruling was also upheld by the Court of Appeal. The they quietly and faithfully serve the Lord and are actively reaching court reprimanded the government for treating the Orang Asli out in their own ways to their respective communities. Migrant “in a most shoddy, cruel and oppressive manner.” The state ministries are flourishing. government, the United Engineers (M) Bhd, the Malaysian Some of the challenges faced by the Church are: the Highway Authority and the Federal Government are appealing performance-driven inclination, the complacent longtime against the Court of Appeal’s decision. believers and indifferent second generation Christians, the yet- Several months ago, the state government ordered five to-be-reconciled tensions between the modernist-thinking bulldozers to tear down 51 homes in Kampung Berembang. leadership and the discontented intellectual youth, and the Hundreds of enforcement officers stood and watched while rampant consumerism within the church culture.

MARCH – APRIL 2007 Berita NECF •15 IRAN Before Christmas, while Pray for Christians who are BURMA The military Iran’s secret police were interrogating imprisoned, that God will comfort, government has again asked for lists of more than a dozen newly imprisoned protect and deliver them. all the names of Christian children’s Christian house fellowship leaders, Iran’s Pray for God continuous protection homes, assemblies, church pastors, President Ahmadinejad wished Iran’s on all Iran’s evangelists – from the trained leaders, members and families. It has Christians a happy Christmas. Bible scholar and career missionary to the also fixed the time for worship which His message sounded like an attempt humble children sharing their simple faith forbids Christians to meet outside these to seduce them into believing that Shiite with friends – so that the gospel of “official” times. Iran is more Christ-honouring than the salvation through the biblical Jesus can Christian leaders do not know what ‘oppressive powers’ in ‘Christian states’ spread across the nation. the government is going to do with the which have created havoc in Iraq and lists. Pray God gives Christians in Burma ruined Iran’s Christmas by levelling THAILAND The civil strife peace, wisdom and boldness during this sanctions against it. in southern Thailand has great time. Pray for their protection and that It is reasonable to infer that repercussions for, not just Malaysia but, their lives will reflect their trust in God, Ahmadinejad means to seduce the the region. Islamic separatists staged at so that many non-believers will be official church of ethnic Armenian and least 49 bombings, shootings and arson drawn into the the saving knowledge Assyrian Christians into becoming attacks during the Chinese New Year of Christ. compliant – even grateful – collaborators period in southern Thailand, killing at least in exchange for limited ‘privileges’. nine and wounding 44. KOSOVO The (Muslim) Ahmadinejad could then appear Suspected Islamic separatists burned Ottoman Empire occupied the Balkans supportive of the church and religious down Thailand’s biggest rubber during the 14th Century. The Christians liberty in general. warehouse located in Yala. The CNY they subjugated won back their And Ahmadinejad needs friends. weekend attacks in Yala, Pattani and freedom through the 1912–13 Balkan Iranian women, students, intelligentsia and Narathiwat provinces were the biggest Wars. During the Ottoman era, large trade unionists are all becoming show of force by Islamic separatists in numbers of ethnic Albanian Muslims increasingly courageous in their the south since the military seized power (now called Kosovars) moved into protest against the regime’s repression in a coup last September. Serbia’s southern regions, now known as and belligerence. Some 2,000 people have been killed Kosovo. These Kosovars then rebelled Thus, Ahmadinejad’s seductive efforts in three years of unrest (The Star, Feb 21). against the resulting Serb rule, protesting will present the official church with a Analysts and officials said the Thai army that ‘their’ land was ‘occupied’. painful, watershed choice: collaborate or has become so preoccupied with politics This Kosovar separatist cause share the persecution. that it is neglecting the problem in the accelerated from 1941, through the WW2 However, the reality is that Christians south. Nazi-Muslim alliance and the subsequent who actively evangelise are persecuted. Muslims are terrified to come pro-Albanian, pro-Arab, anti-Serb Persecution escalated dramatically forward to present information because Communist dictatorship. The Kosovar through 2006 under Ahmadinejad’s they fear retribution from a militant vs Serbia struggle for Kosovo escalated direction, and it is expected to escalate in movement which treats suspected through the 1990s, erupting into war in 2007. Reportedly, new government informants with severe brutality. 1999. On Feb 2, the UN’s special envoy directives will soon place the church even Pray for the leaders of the country – proposed that Kosovo basically be ceded more under the thumb of the intelligence especially Gen Sonthi Boonyaratkalin, the from Serbia to the Kosovars. Ethnic and ministry and security forces. nation’s first Muslim to head the army – religious tensions in Kosovo are Pray that God will give Iran’s to take firm and wise action to arrest the likely to explode. Armenian and Assyrian Christians great escalating violence in the region. Pray for Pray for justice and for God to spiritual discernment and wisdom, as well success for the army and police personnel protect the small Orthodox Serb as moral clarity and courage so that they in nabbing those responsible for inciting remnant in Kosovo, and for wisdom will not be deceived, seduced or tempted. hatred and division, and causing the and divine guidance for the country’s Pray they will trust God completely. deaths of many innocent civilians. political and religious leaders.

16• Berita NECF MARCH – APRIL 2007