http://www.necf.org.my/html/berita_f.htm PP5872/12/2004 SEPTEMBER – OCTOBER 2004

EDITORIAL Serious View on Small Matter PIRATED he Passion of the Christ is a pirated dics might have rationalised their powerful film that has act as “the lesser of the two evils” since roused deep emotions the film was not accessible at the time and provoked much before the censorship board’s approval. controversy all over the Others might have contended that it was copyright property is currently against Tworld. In , the film has also a well-intentioned theft (if it was indeed Malaysian Copyright Laws. Christians stirred animated public debates, mostly a form of theft) and even used Bible who participate through purchasing or centred on *the government’s restriction verses to support their claim – “Whether copying or simply viewing are, in effect, of the film to Christians only. (*See page in pretense or in truth, Christ is preached” endorsing lawlessness (iniquity) and thus 3 for more on this.) and “I do all things for the sake of the opposing the ordinance of God. However, the Christian public has gospel, that I may become a fellow Second, is blatant copying of been so engrossed in this hullabaloo that partaker of it.” copyright material for commercial sale a they have missed the voice of one And why not? The pirated copies of theft? Are those who contribute to the criticism leveled against the Church – that The Passion has already struck a heavy blow piracy market accomplices? From the on the issue of piracy. Many Christians on atheism in China and opened up a secular legal dimension, movies are would have watched The Passion on pirated vast potential for evangelism in the considered “intellectual products,” VCDs/DVDs prior to the Government’s Middle East. Others may also argue that property of their respective creators under approval for the movie’s public screening. it is ambiguous to put copyright laws the Malaysia Copyright Act 1987. From Some churches have even screened the under moral category, for it is more of a the biblical perspective, both the eighth movie in their halls – obviously without law of utility, which gives privileges to and tenth commandments of the consent from the local film distributor. favoured groups. The more astute Decalogue, “You shall not steal” and Their intentions were sincere – to reach Christian consumer may go so far as to “You shall not covet…”, were given to out to non-believers, while inspiring a defend his purchase of a pirated VCD as encourage respect for others’ property for deeper commitment to Christ among legitimate since he had paid RM5 for it. the sake of stability in a society. their flocks. (“I didn’t sin. The manufacturer and the That means God’s people are not to But have we considered how non- traders did.”) long for or lust after the legitimate believers view this act? Recently, a church So, is it an ethical issue if we watch properties of others. In other words, while in the Klang Valley screened the film in The Passion on an unauthorised DVD/ those involved in unauthorised its premises. Several non-Christians who VCD? reproduction of original materials are knew about the screening then We break at least two biblical committing a legal offence under the commented that the church had directives on Christian living. First, Copyright Act, Christians – who know “illegally” shown the movie. They Romans 13:1–7 clearly states that all God’s laws – who buy, possess or even remarked something to the effect that governments are established by God and publicly screen a pirated copy of a movie Christians are no different from non- failing to subject ourselves to them is to have broken God’s law. Christians. oppose the ordinance of God. By direct Piracy is an offence. When we application, the Malaysian Government, Christians buy or view pirated VCD or Small Matter? and the subsequent laws it makes, is to DVD copies of movies, we not only Most Christians have no qualms about be obeyed. The will of God is that by condone the offence, we encourage buying pirated discs or watching films on doing right we “may silence the ignorance others to act against the copyright laws pirated DVDs/VCDs. For example, of foolish men” (1 Peter 2:15). some who have viewed The Passion on Unauthorised reproduction of • GO TO PAGE 3 NEWS

NECF MALAYSIA COUNCIL Chairman LETTER How ‘Passion’ Reach Our Screen Rev Datuk Dr Prince Guneratnam Vice-Chairman Controversy Helped Publicise Film Rev Dr Eu Hong Seng Dear Pastors and Leaders, Honorary Secretary NECF Malaysia never applied to the had been banned and we decided to Elder Kong Yeng Phooi Government for The Passion of the Christ discuss the matter with the relevant Honorary Treasurer I want to ask whether it is correct to justify the means by the results? In to be viewed by Christians only. Its authorities through the good office of Mr Samuel Ang other words, is the way we do something justified by the results we get Secretary-General Rev Wong Kim Kong Dr Vincent Lim. We were in constant Committee Members by doing it? stressed this to clarify the misconception communication with him verbally and it Rev Justin Wan I ask this out of great concern over the movie ‘The Passion of arising from media reports and rumours was relayed to him that the film has Rev Ng Kok Kee Christ’. We all have heard the great reviews and the testimony of people that a certain Christian body was sentimental value to Christians and it also Rev Dr Dexter Low coming to Christ through watching it and how it (has) so powerfully responsible for this “Christian only” contains historical truths. Rev Foo Moy Ping impacted lives. I believe it is a very powerful film and will be used to viewing. “During this time, several Christian Rev Tay Wah Seng God’s glory. But the question remains to churches, pastors, and leaders He suggested that the misunder- groups wrote in to the Prime Minister to Rev Lim Soon Hock here in Malaysia – is it the right thing in the eyes of God to show a standing probably came about after the seek the approval for the film screening. Dr Khoo Kay Hup pirated copy to your church? Government granted approval for the One denomination particularly sought Mrs Grace Hee Yes, they are all pirated copies because it has not been released in Mr Chua Keng Seng film with the condition that the tickets approval for the film to be screened in its the US on DVD yet. We can say we do not know, or maybe better, we do Advisor are to be sold through churches only and churches. I believe that it was this not want to know. What a testimony to people in the piracy business Mr David Boler, K.M.N. not made available to the public over the denomination’s application that sparked that the sale of this movie is so great. And that it is being bought by the counter. Government’s approval for the film in talks that the approval for the film was righteous, holy, law-abiding Christians. Wishing to set the record straight, he anticipation of a government ban. Our forthcoming. NECF MALAYSIA STAFF I was at a pastors fellowship where this was talked about and we explained how the film came to our screen response then was that this was a “At that time, 20th Century Fox (the Secretary-General were also talking about how the current PM is stomping out corruption with the help of Dr Vincent Lim, the commercial enterprise and the Church distributor) had not even bothered to send Rev Wong Kim Kong, J.M.N. and illegal activities. Then a pastor spoke up and said, if anyone Prime Minister’s political secretary. should not be involved in the initial stage the film for review to the Censorship Executive Secretary (Secretary- knows how he can get a copy of the VCD to show his church, he wanted General’s Office) He said: “When the film was released of application by the distributor to the Board in view of our censorship laws that it. I about fell off my chair. in the US and other parts of the world, Censorship Board. Sandy Tan Another church we visited was going to show it and I spoke to the Confidential Secretary NECF received many requests to get the “But there arose rumours that the film • GO TO NEXT PAGE pastor and he decided not to and to wait for the original one. At Ching Bee Gaik another church, I preached from Colossians 3 on how we need to • FROM FRONT COVER Executive Secretaries change the way we live and act when we come into the Kingdom of Ann Low (Prayer) Malaysia Copyright Act God. The pastor stood up and confirmed and enforced what was said of the country, and encourage the growth Kathryn Tan (Finance) of piracy business. For where there is a THE UN World Intellectual Property Lim Siew Foong (Research) and then announced that next week they would be viewing the pirated Organisation gives two main reasons for demand there is always a market. We also Ngeh Hoong Eng (Chinese) video. WHAT? That is what Jesus called hypocrisy. commit theft indirectly by stealing the protection of intellectual property: Alfred Tais (Bahasa Malaysia) I believe that this is a test and in many different ways, the fact that intellectual properties. When we are Patrick Cheng (Administration it is touching people justifies using a stolen copy. As long as it is in the 1. To give statutory expression to & Church Relations) name of Jesus and for the good of the kingdom of God, it is all right to careless about the laws, we discredit the name of our Lord. As such, there is no the moral and economic rights of Ong Juat Heng (Communications) steal and cheat. Yes, you are stealing from the film producer, Mel creators in their creations and the rights Rev Lai Moo Him (Special Projects & Gibson, as well as many others. ardent difference in behaviour between Christians and non-Christians. of the public in access to those Church Relations – North) Then we try to tell our people not to be liars, not to steal… This is a creations; and Administrative Secretaries test of the character of the leadership of the Church. Will we pass the Christians know the importance of truth, honesty and integrity and we must 2. To promote, as a deliberate act Adeline Koh test? If we do not, we lose our right to stand before people to tell them to of Government policy, creativity and the Maggie Teoh run their lives or business with truth and integrity because we have not lead by example, to be salt and light in the world. How do we pray for the nation dissemination and application of its Sangan Mutang done the same. There is a saying, ‘Practise what you preach’, that my results and to encourage fair trading Administrative Assistants if we ourselves violate the laws of the children would quote to me. I think it is a wise statement for all of us. which could contribute to economic and Yvonne Chin land and thus break the ordinance of Please pray over this issue, that the Church would take a right stand social development. Jouslly Buaya God? Isaiah 59 indicates clearly the before God and men and trust that God will use it just as powerfully, Under the Copyright Act 1987 and even more, when we use a valid copy for His glory. I do not believe responsibility of God’s people to uphold EDITORIAL righteousness in His way so that He will Malaysia, films are under copyright that the results justify the means in this or any other matter. It did not protection together with other literary Editor hear our prayers for the nation. for Jesus and it should not for us either if we are to be disciples of Christ and artistic works. The Act also explains Rev Wong Kim Kong Jesus, our Lord and Saviour. “Behold, the Lord’s hand is not so Assistant Editor & Writer short that it cannot save; neither is His when a copyright work is considered Ong Juat Heng infringed. Just a Thought, ear so dull that it cannot hear. But your iniquities have made a separation between “The copyright in a work is ADDRESS (Name With-held) infringed when a person who, not being 32, Jalan SS2/103, you and your God, and your sins have hidden His face from you, so that He the owner of the copyright, and without 47300 Petaling Jaya license from the owner, does or , Malaysia does not hear.” (Isaiah 59:1–2) Tel: 603-7727 8227 authorises any of the following acts: Editor’s Note: This letter came to us via e-mail. For those of us who have Fax: 603-7729 1139 transgressed in this area, perhaps we i. Reproduces in any material form, E-mail: [email protected] should consider how to make restitution. performs, shows or plays or distributes

2 BERITA NECF September – October 2004 September – October 2004 BERITA NECF 3 NEWS NEWS Please Pass the Tissue No Gain from Restriction New Name for Over 35,000 tickets sold Revitalised NECF Ticket Sales on Bahasa Words Youth Body furtively drifted from the male NECF Malaysia wish to clarify that ones. Some, unable to bear the in the July – August 2004 Berita THE NECF Malaysia Youth sights of our Lord’s sufferings, NECF issue, it was reported that ‘Unreasonable’ Commission has been re-named NECF walked out of the show. part of the ticket sales would go Malaysia YouthNet to better reflect the One viewer commented that towards the NECF Foundation, a NECF Malaysia has protested against a in Article 11 of the Federal Constitution. role and objectives of the group. the show was an “awakening film” ministry launched this year to Sabah fatwa that prohibits non-Muslims Article 11 includes the right to have access At a September meeting of youth that arouses deep feelings for the provide financial aid to needy in the state to use certain Bahasa Malaysia to, and to the use of, scriptures and printed leaders representing various churches and One who took our place on the pastors and full-time workers. words. The fatwa — a legal ruling issued material in Bahasa Malaysia, a language Christian organisations, the attendees also cross. “The film captures the The Foundation board members by an Islamic counsel or mufti – was that Sabahans dearly hold to,” said the agreed on the group’s purpose statement emotions of the characters like had earlier proposed a fund-raising issued in June 2003 under Section 35 of letter which was signed by NECF of “Serving Youth Ministries, Blessing the premiere to raise funds for the the Sabah Administration of Islamic Law Secretary-General Rev Wong Kim Kong. Nation” by targeting three levels: Mary (Jesus’ mother). You can see Foundation. the pain in her eyes. You can feel However, the NECF Secretary- Act 1992. It forbids non-Muslims from NECF also expressed concern on the churches, youth pastors and leaders, and the pain Jesus suffered,” he said. General declined the proposal. Due using 32 words in any printed and audio- State Government’s attempt to impose the nation. Another viewer said the film to a miscommunication, the matter visual form. the fatwa on non-Muslims when fatwa In practice, YouthNet will provide a helped him to understand what was incorrectly reported in Berita In a recent letter to Sabah Chief should only apply to Muslims. “Any forum for interactions and prayers Jesus meant when He said during NECF. Minister Datuk Seri Musa Haji Aman, attempt to impose fatwa on non-Muslims among youth ministries to foster mutual his last meal with His disciples, We apologise for the error. NECF said it was “unreasonable to is ultra vires the Federal Constitution… understanding and partnership, and “This is my body broken for you.” prohibit any person of any religion from The said fatwa is not consonant with the provide consultation and research The film is being screened in there is a demand. And, again depending using words in our national language, Government’s assurance of respecting resources on youth issues to churches. It IT’S one film that can thaw the icy heart 17 cinemas nationwide for a scheduled on the demand, the film may be extended especially in view of the Government’s the rights of religious groups,” the letter will also represent Christian youth and moisten the dry eye. And that’s exactly two-month period beginning Sept 1. to other towns not on the current list effort to promote the use of Bahasa stressed. ministries in engagements with the what happened the premiere of The NECF Malaysia is coordinating ticket which comprises eight cinemas in the Malaysia.” The letter argued that some It urged the CM to adopt measures Government on youth issues such as Passion of the Christ that was attended by sales with the cinema operators, and by Klang Valley, two each in Baru and of the words, such as Allah, were already that promote national integration and education and National Service. pastors from the Klang Valley. Sept 15, over 35,000 tickets have been , and one each in Ipoh, Melaka used before the birth of Islam. Restricting religious harmony, and that do not Although YouthNet’s focus is youth In the darkness of the theatre, taken up by churches. and . In , the film the usage of words – especially common alienate or polarise the rakyat. ministries, programmes reaching youths unabashed sobs were heard coming from The distributor, 20th Century Fox, may is being shown in one cinema each in ones such as Allah, Injil, and imam, distorts Copies of the letter were sent to Prime may be held when opportunities arise. the female silhouettes while sniffs extend the screening beyond October if and . truth and contributes to breakdown in Minister Dato’ Seri Abdullah Badawi and For instance, the group is looking into communication. Minister in the Prime Minister’s organising a youth rally featuring the The prohibition “infringes on the Department (National unity and famed street evangelist and author, Rev • FROM PAGE 3: HOW ‘PASSION’ REACH OUR decided to print 50,000 copies of the newspaper columnists and social activists. rights of Christians in Sabah, as enshrined Integration) Datuk Dr Maximus Ongkili. David Wilkerson, and his son in 2006. SCREEN “Experience the Passion of the Christ” There were also inaccurate and forbid the public screening of films booklet, which explains why Jesus died incorrect newspaper reports on the depicting any of the prophets mentioned to, complement the film which shows matter, which provided more fodder for New building for illegally-demolished OA church how He died. argument. For example, one local English in the Quran and we know Muslims TEN months after the Kg Pasu Orang Asli (OA) church He appealed for understanding from consider Jesus one of their prophets. daily reported that the Government had building was illegally demolished, work on a new building the Christian community and urged those banned the film on the grounds that it “We believe the Prime Minister officially started on Aug 7 with the ceremonial planting of the who have doubts about NECF’s manner could affect sensitivities relating to the sympathetically considered the various foundation pillar on the site by two SIB Semenanjung leaders of handling matters to contact NECF applications for approval and decided to depiction of Jesus Christ…” and “it later – Pr Dr Chew Weng Chee and Pr Richard Samporoh. directly for clarification. lifted the ban but decided to only allow get around the censorship law by granting The church, an outreach work of SIB Semenanjung, was The controversy over the “Christian Christians to watch it with tickets the application but with conditions, torn down last September by several state government only” viewing of the film was played out including restricting the viewing to purchased from churches.” The report is officers who had alleged that the church was illegally built on in the local dailies after one politician inaccurate in that the Government had Christians only and restricting sales of state land. queried at a parliament session the never banned the film as the film the tickets through churches only. With the assistance of NECF Malaysia, the case was government’s condition that only “When we received news from Dr distributor did not even submit the film brought to the attention of Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Abdullah Christians might view the film. for approval to the Censorship Board. Lim that the PM had verbally approved Ahmad Badawi, who responded by agreeing to pay RM40,000 Ms Teresa Kok, the state Another newspaper criticised the the film to be shown, we contacted the for compensation, and also permitted the church to be rebuilt. assemblyman of Seputeh, argued that all distributor and assisted them in putting Christian organisation – without naming During the groundbreaking ceremnoy, Pr Dr Chew thanked UPON THIS PILLAR SHALL THE CHURCH STAND: Pr Richard Malaysians should be given the freedom it – for applying for the film to be (left) and Pr Dr Chew securing the foundation pillar at the ground- the application through. After the the Government for upholding the individual’s right to practise to watch movies of their choice and that screened to only Christians. breaking ceremony to mark the start of work on the new building. approval was formally granted, the his religion. He told the OA Christians not to fear any threats watching the movie would help promote By applying for limited viewing to distributor chose to work exclusively with but to look forward to a church that will be a place of worship country did not prohibit any tribe or individual to practise his understanding of other religions, Christians only, the organisation was us on the ticket sales according to the and learning the Scriptures, which will then result in a positive religion. something much needed in a multi-racial acting selfishly, the paper had said. approval conditions outlined by the change in the OA community there. Some 500 people, many from other towns and states, country like Malaysia. Ms Kok’s eloquent Notwithstanding the reports – whether Home Ministry.” NECF Executive Secretary (BM) Alfred Tais who attended the joyous occasion. – Reported by Pr Miun Amat argument opened a floodgate of opinions Rev Wong added that immediately inaccurate or bias – the newspapers had represented NECF, explained to the OA Christians that the (Coordinator, OA Ministry, SIB Semenanjung) after receiving the approval letter, NECF from many quarters, including notable helped to publicise the film.

4 BERITA NECF September – October 2004 September – October 2004 BERITA NECF 5 RRREPOREPOREPORTSTSTS Ministries and Partners WITH the recent conclusion of NECF Malaysia 9th BGM and the election of a 14-member council, NECF has also appointed Christians to sit in the various NECF commissions. The commission members will serve a two-year term with immediate effect. Following are the commissions and their members: WOMEN’S CONCERN Mr Joshua Liong, Focus on the Church, Kepong Empowering Women For Leadership Members Family (Malaysia) Rev Loh Soon Choy, Petaling Madam Lee Eng Lee, Subang Jaya Gospel NECF Executive Jaya Evangelical Free Church Centre, Petaling Jaya Secretary – Mr Patrick Dr Minni Ang, Luther Mrs Chan Tean Yin, EFC Gospel Centre, Cheng House, Petaling Jaya TTThehehe DEBORAH PrinciplePrinciplePrinciple Petaling Jaya Dr Elok Robert Tee, – By Chan Tean Yin Ms Shereene Wong, Pusat Aktiviti Calvary, PRAYER Luther House, PJ , Chairperson – Mrs Datuk Paul Low, River of t is heart warming and encoura- the Body of Christ, women like men, are Ms Carol Tang, Sg Way-Subang Methodist Grace Hee, New Life Life Sanctuary, Kuala raging to read of the Prime members of the Body and thus have Church, Petaling Jaya Restoration Centre, PJ Lumpur Minister’s announcement that the equal responsibilities to function Dr Cheah Soo Ngoh, FGA Kuala Lumpur Members Dato’ Lew Sip Hon, FGA government has set a target for according to their God-given role and Ms Nesam Ebenezer, Malaysian CARE Ms Charissa Giam, Charis Kuala Lumpur 30 per cent of the people function in the Body ( 1 Cor. 12: 13). Christian Centre, KL Dr Teresa Chai, Grace Assembly, PJ involved in decision making in the public Just as God calls men to positions of Just as God calls men to positions of I leadership, He also calls women to ORANG ASLI Mrs Ruth Lew, The Hope of Glory, KL Dr Goh Chee Leong, Emmanuel Methodist sector to be women. He said very aptly, leadership, He also calls women to leadership roles. Chairman – Pr Bakar Mogot, New Life Mrs Doris Ho, DUMC PJ Church, Petaling Jaya “I don’t think there exists any position leadership roles. Assembly, Sg Pelek, Selangor Ms Lucrece Loo, SSMC PJ Mr Cheong Seng Gee, SSMC PJ that is specifically for men. If you want a Are there models in the Bible that reluctant general, Barak and directs the Deputy Chairman – Ms Norli Ging, Pr Josephine Loo, FGA KL Mr Tan Kong Beng, Subang Gospel Hall good person for a job, your thoughts must women leaders can emulate? Thank God battle. Barak’s 10,000 strong army Pekan Baptist Church, Pekan Ms Leong Dai May, People’s Park Baptist, NECF Executive Secretary – Ms Lim not be confined to one gender. The post we are not kept completely in the dark as defeated a much larger Canaanite force. Secretary – Mr Lizune a/l Bah Chong, Petaling Jaya Siew Foong should be given to whoever is capable we do have a wonderful model in In the confusion, the Canaanite St Peter’s Church, Ipoh Ms Jennifer Wong, People’s Park Baptist for it” (The Star Aug 2, 2004). Deborah who rose to prominence during commander, Sisera, escapes, only to be Members Mr Ng Weng Hou, FGT PJ BAHASA MALAYSIA As I read this newspaper report, my the days of the Judges. A case study of killed in an exhausted sleep by a woman, Pr Miun Amat, SIB Cameron Highlands Liaison Members Members thoughts raced to the situation in the Deborah’s leadership role and functions named Jael. Deborah’s song, long Pr Ping Epoi, Gereja Emmanuel Subang Ms Lim Siew Foong, NECF Malaysia Dr Teoh Soong Kee, St Peter’s Church, Ipoh Malaysian Church and the place of shows us that a woman can be an effective recognised as one of the most powerful Permai, Mr Alfred Tais, NECF Malaysia Pr Doris Chou, Gereja Shalom Batpist KL women in Christian leadership. I wonder spiritual leader, yet maintain her female poems of antiquity, celebrates the Rev Japalos Odong, Gereja Shalom, Gopeng Pr M.S. Maniam, FGA KL Lumpur how many churches in Malaysia would distinctive. Hebrew victory3 Pr Pengiran Buaya, Pekan Baptist Church Mrs Tammy Chan Tuck Mei, Cantonese Pr Joshua Low, Kajang AOG embrace the position of our very open- Pr John Abel, FGA Kuala Lumpur Methodist Church KL Pr Soliman Wan, Hope of God Kuala minded and progressive Prime Minister? HISTORICAL CULTURAL LEADERSHIP STYLE OF Ms Jamilah Daun, JEKOA, Tapah Regional Member – Ms Nancy Quay, Lumpur Are our church governing bodies CONTEXT OF DEBORAH’S DEBORAH Pr Loh Kan Hooi, Gereja Lutheran Orang Community Baptist Church Petaling Jaya Pr Daniel Raut, SIB Johor Baru consisting of a 30 per cent women LEADERSHIP 1. Her leadership was divinely Asli Pengkalan Hulu, Perak NECF Executive Secretary – Ms Ann Pr Matias Balang, FGT Subang Jaya representation? The book of Judges is one of the saddest appointed/chosen Rev Vincent Maniam, Gereja Injil Sepenuh Low Pr Sigar Lasong, Gereja Emmanuel Muar Actually, I feel it is not necessary to parts of the Bible, humanly speaking. Deborah overshadows the whole story Melaka NECF Executive Secretary – Alfred set the target of 30 per cent or whatever Some call it the “Book of Failure”. The of Judges. Therefore, she must be seen Ms Zalina Mat, Malaysian Chinese EVANGELISM Tais percentage. The principle should be last chapter of Joshua anticipates for what she is: being a woman in such Evangelistic League, Kuala Rompin Chairman – Rev Elisha Satvinder, New giftedness not gender, God’s appointment continued blessing upon God’s people in a position; she must represent a Mr Lim Ton Lon, Malaysian Chinese Covenant Community, Kuala Lumpur MISSIONS and not man’s volition. In churches where the land of their inheritance. sovereign activity of God. This is all Evangelistic League, Kuala Rompin Members Members more than 50 per cent of the members But we do not proceed far into the the more amazing because in the Old Mr Tan Chin Leong, Full Gospel Mr Cheong Wye Choon, Operation are female, it is only appropriate to have account of Judges before we sense that Testament cultural social context, women YOUTH Businessmen’s Fellowship Mobilisation Fellowship a corresponding female representation in all is not well. While there are deliverances were not set over men. But here in the Members Mr Alan Ch’ng, The Navigators Mr Edwin Marsden, International Christian decision-making and leadership roles. along the way, the tone of the book is case of Deborah, we have a woman Mr John Yip, Malaysia Coalition of Sports Mr Lim Seng Watt, Mission It is not my intention to enter into a predominantly one of oppression and by Divine consent and approval Ministries / Bandar Utama Chapel Pr Richard Yun, Pusat Aktiviti Calvary Mr Elisha Tan, YWAM theological argument of whether women defeat because “ everyone did what was placed in a position of leadership. Mr Richard Koh, Malaysia Campus Crusade Pr Richard Samporoh, SIB Semenanjung should be in church leadership. My right in his own eye.” When the gospel for Christ Mr Lee Wee Min, Focus on the Family Rev Johnson Chua, Open Doors premise is that Christ, through the gospel, of God’s grace does appear in the book, 2. Multifaceted roles of Deborah’s Ms Margaret Loy, DUMC Petaling Jaya Rev Tony Lim, Emmanuel EFC Mr Lim Lee, Faith Evangelical Free Church has liberated women spiritually, and it shines forth in sharp brightness in this leadership Rev Kenneth Chin, ACTS Church, PJ Pr Leroy Ng, Metro Tabernacle, KL Mr Philip Chang, Intercare socially. He has broken through cultural dark setting 1. Deborah played at least three different Mr Jason Fong, Scripture Union Mr Tan Jooi Long, SIB Kuala Lumpur barriers to make male and female equal When we come to the account on roles ( Judges 4: 4–5 ). She was a versatile Mr Thiru Somasundram, National Tamil RESEARCH Rev Tony Lim, Emmanuel EFC in Him ( Gal. 3: 28). Both men and Deborah, Israel had again turned to leader. Youth Ministry Network Chairman – Mr Steven Wong, DUMC NECF Administrative Secretary – women received the Holy Spirit at idolatry, and experienced its •Deborah is identified as a Mr John Jonathan, SIB Semenanjung, PJ Deputy Chairman – Dr Living Lee Chai Adeline Koh Pentecost and were given spiritual gifts consequences in two decades of prophetess. God used her as His Ms Annette Arujah, Fellowship of Peng, People’s Park Baptist Church, PJ without gender discrimination. It was not oppression by the Canaanites. This time spokesperson, communicating special Evangelical Students Members Note: The Chairpersons for the Women’s evident that men were given one set of a woman, Deborah, identified both as a messages to His people. Rev Christopher Long, Grace Assembly of Dr Chan Geok Oon, FGA KL Concern, Youth, BM and Missions commissions gifts and women another. prophetess and a judge,2 is the agent of Klang, Banting Dr Leong Tien Fock, Beacon Presbyterian will be appointed in due course. Consequently, being incorporated into God’s deliverance. She accompanies a •GO TO NEXT PAGE

6 BERITA NECF SeSeSeptember – October 20042004ptember SeSeSeptember – October 20042004ptember BERITA NECF 7 • FROM PREVIOUS PAGE spiritual energy, and a potent example.

•The text also says she was “ leading 4. Love as the motivation of Manorom Christian Hospital (judging) Israel at that time.” This was leadership very unusual in a society that emphasised Leadership is often regarded as an official male leadership and female matter. The leader must have a title, an Revisited – By Dr Felicia Lim subordination. office, an appointment. Deborah teaches •The text also says that Deborah us that leadership is the expression of od etches some impressions served as a sort of supreme court and the ‘mother-spirit‘ to embrace the deeply on our minds. That settled disputes that could not be decided whole of God’s people. “ Until that I Gseems to be w locally. Deborah arose… a mother in Israel” hat He was doing when I first visited Any one of these roles would set off (Judges 5:7), and not “I a leader, a Manorom Christian Hospital in Thailand The church in Manorom – the largest church in Central Thailand as a young medical student doing my – was set up in response to the many people who came to the any individual as special, male or female. prophetess, a Divinely- chosen Lord as a result of the hospital ministry. Possession of all three roles indicates that instrument arose” but “a mother.” elective posting. Although I do not Deborah was a truly unusual woman, Hers was evidently a heart-concern, remember much of that visit, it had with great personal and spiritual gifts. an affectional concern for the Lord’s actually made a great impact on me. I the hospital evangelists to those who are waiting to see the Deborah reminds us that society’s people. This element must be in all graduated from medical school and went doctors. The hospital evangelists also visit patients in the wards stereotypes need not hold for God’s leadership – the element of a jealous on to do my postgraduate studies in to share with them the Gospel and to pray with them. people. God’s choice of Deborah shows yearning over the spiritual interests of anaesthesia. Yet the impressions of that It is becoming increasingly difficult for foreign medical that He is free to work through any those concerned. “ I arose a mother,” said mission hospital endured. For years I during my two-week personnel to work in Thailand because of the need to sit for human being. That choice reminds us Deborah. The incentive of her inspiring carried this dream of going back to visit stint in the Manorom Hospital. An qualifying examinations in Thai in order to obtain a practising that a person’s sex does not leadership was the mother-passion for the Hospital. Then in 2003, I attended a OMF missionary surgeon performs almost any licence. It has also not been easy to recruit Thai doctors and automatically qualify or disqualify a spiritual family. conference where I met someone from surgery although he was trained as a general surgeon. There nurses to work here, because it involves a lot of sacrifice. As a him or her for significant ministry.4 the Manorom Hospital. God was putting is no qualified anaesthesiologist but there are two nurse result of the shortage of staff, some services and some wards 5. A strategic leader arrangements in place for my dream to anaesthetists – one, a local staff nurse and the other, an American have had to be closed. There is a need to pray that more Thai 3. Leadership by inspiration She proved to be unusually wise and be realised! We established contact and missionary nurse. Both of them have been trained in anaesthesia. Christian doctors and nurses will respond to God’s call to serve Deborah led by tactful. She had not leaped into full glory in August 2003 I made my first return Even though anaesthetic facilities in the operating theatre are in this hospital. God had placed the call and vision in the • Inspiring faith and inciting vision – at once, but had by many years of exertion visit to Manorom Hospital. Later that basic, they have been doing a good job at maintaining a high hearts of His people to engage in this evangelistic medical vision of victory. She displayed the ability and organising activity prepared Israel for year, in November, I was at a conference standard of care and safety to their patients. mission 48 years ago. Many lives have been blessed and touched to inspire faith and courage. She not only her war of independence. After these in Bangkok and again I took the My visits to the Hospital have been meaningful. As I offered and it will be wonderful to see the work go on. possessed mental acumen and common had been completed, she acted quickly opportunity to make another visit to the my services and they learned from me the finer points of I had the privilege of joining them in celebrating the th sense but she was also a woman to whom and decisively. She was a strategic Hospital. I had waited for several years anaesthesia, I also learned from them. So often I can easily hospital’s 48 anniversary on Aug 14. It was exciting to hear the Lord had given the gift of prophecy leader. Deborah showed a great deal and now God was giving me two visits forget that it is the Lord who gives life and who heals. Doctors the testimonies of many who have come to know the Lord and song. Because of these abilities, she of discernment. She saw the strategic in one year! I knew I would be back. and technology are just God’s instruments. When I was at the through the hospital. Lives have been touched and transformed succeeded in calling the hill folk back to moment had come. She called Barak and August 2004. I have just returned hospital, I was reminded that skills and knowledge, technology as a result of patients seeking treatment in this mission hospital. Jehovah (encourage faith). She reminded told him that the time was ripe for action. from my third visit to the Manorom and machines are helpful in treating patients, but ultimately it is Manarom Christian Hospital has played a very significant role them of their significant history in Egypt She told him the military strategy to Hospital. I spent two weeks there. the Lord whom we should depend upon to see us through. It in evangelism and church planting in Central Thailand these and Sinai and prophesied the coming of adopt.5 Manorom is a small village in Central was also a humbling experience for me to see God bring healing past 48 years. better days. Her songs passed from Thailand, situated about two hours by car to patients in the absence of all the sophisticated equipment The church in Manorom was set up when the hospital was mouth to mouth and resounded from ~To be continued~ from Bangkok. The Manorom Christian that we have in a modern hospital. established. Today it is the largest church in Central Thailand every hill. Hospital was set up by Overseas The Manorom Hospital provides most of the basic facilities with a membership of 120. Many of them came to faith in the Thus, she inspired heroic Footnotes Missionary Fellowship (OMF) in 1956. that are available in a hospital such as X-ray and laboratory Lord through the hospital. God has truly been faithful in confidence and awakened the glad 1 Irving Lester Jensen, Jensen’s Survey of At that time this was the only hospital facilities, a pharmacy, physiotherapy, an operating theatre, sustaining His work in Manorom Christian Hospital. Let’s pray hope of freedom in every tribe. the Old Testament, Chicago : Moody Press,1978. serving a big area in Central Thailand. outpatient clinics, an emergency department and a dental clinic. that God will continue to use it to extend His kingdom in Deborah demonstrated the spirit or 2The judges were leaders or deliverers. The Hospital staff consisted of missionary Besides these, since its inception, the Hospital has been taking Central Thailand. – Dr Felicia Lim is a Professor and Consultant principle of leadership, that is, judge was a charismatic leader raised up by doctors and staff nurses. care of leprosy patients who are Anaesthesiologist with Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia. She worships inspiration. So we see that the strength Yahweh, on whom his Spirit came to empower Local nurses were normally shunned by the community. at Praise Baptist Centre, Bandar Sri Damansara, Kuala Lumpur. of Deborah’s leadership was her power to deal with a certain situation. He was not a trained to be practical In 1997, an AIDS programme called to inspire. Both Barak and the leaders king and did not establish a dynasty or ruling nurses (like our assistant the Friday Friendship group was WOMEN to WOMEN who took the lead fulfilled their leadership family. Judges were commissioned by God to nurses). Through the started for AIDS patients. It provides Advisor/Co-ordinator: Goh Poh Gaik by reason of the inspiration received deliver the Israelites from the oppression of their years, local Christian counseling and teaching about AIDS Women to women, a project of the NECF Commission on Women’s Concerns, is a doctors and nurses have to HIV positive patients and their bimonthly supplement to Berita NECF. through Deborah. Leadership is a enemies, usually by war, and then to rule the It has the broad objectives of: matter of inspiration. It is an people during the era of peace . been recruited. The families. • educating and raising awareness of the social and theological issues affecting women • stimulating efforts towards networking and dialogue amongst women 3 hospital has since been Patients who come to the endowment. Lawrence O. Richards, The Bible Reader’s • encouraging one another in the use of our gifts and talents for the Lord’s Kingdom handed over to a local Hospital have the opportunity to hear Your letters and contributions (feedback, suggestions, ideas, articles, poems, cartoons, etc.) Our lesson then from Deborah is that, Companion, USA : Victor Books, 1991, p.163. are most welcome. whether officially in the office of a leader 4 Lawrence O Richards, The Bible Reader’s Christian mission the Gospel. Each morning, at the Send to: The Co-ordinator, WOMEN TO WOMEN NECF, 32, Jalan SS2/103, 47300 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia or not, leadership is essentially a matter Companion , USA : Victor Books 1991, p.163 organisation. NO WASTING OF TIME HERE: A lady sharing the Outpatient Department, before the gospel to the patients waiting for their turn at the 5 I provided clinic starts, there will be a time of of the gift and power of inspiration, a Abraham Kuyper, Women of the Old Outpatient Department. The views expressed in this supplement do not necessarily reflect those of the Commission or the NECF. contagious influence, an emanating Testament, Grand Rapids : Victor Books, 1975. anaesthetic service preaching of the Gospel by one of

8 BERITA NECF September – October 2004 September – October 2004 BERITA NECF 9 • FROM PREVIOUS PAGE the “Dungun Church be a lighthouse that shines continuously from Dungun guests. Guest-of-honour Alor Setar MP forever”. Will You Die for Dato Chor Chee Heung gave away Right down in Johor Baru, over 600 hampers to 80 needy people, most of Christians from some 10 English- and them nominated by the State Welfare Mandarin-speaking churches met at the Department. The events were all rally organised by the JB Pastors Your Country? organised by the combined churches and Fellowship. Pr Tay Wah Seng reported that Alor Setar Pastors Fellowship. there was a joyful sense of expectation “DO you love Malaysia? Are you willing to lay down your life Over in Penang, 450 Christians from at the rally. Those who attended wished Part of the large crowd at the for your country?” This was the startling challenge thrown by 10 English-speaking churches gathered that more would catch the vision and Klang Valley Chinese rally at FGA KL. Dr David Demien to some 800 people who attended the recent for a great time of celebration and prayer burden to pray, he said. Klang Valley Merdeka Prayer Rally held in Kuala Lumpur. for the nation on Aug 29. Organised by In Melaka, over 130 people turned He further asked: “Do you want to know God’s plan for the “Love Penang Network”, the rally up at the nine-church rally on Aug 27. Malaysia?” After a pause, he continued, “Why should God reveal KLANG VALLEY RALLY also urged participants to join a citywide Many, like these, wept freely during the small-group prayer session The rally was organised by Melaka Prayer His plans to you if you don’t love your country?” in response to the message. inter-church “40 Days of Purpose Network together with the host church, Those questions cut to the core, evidenced by the unabashed Campaign” to be held next year to impact Calvary Life Assembly, and participating weeping after his message when the congregation broke into prayer programme which included the nationwide 40-day Prayer the city for Christ, according to Pr Lim churches. Lyn Tan reported a sense of small groups to pray for the nation. and Fast and the National Prayer Conference of which Dr Soon Hock. unity at the rally. Dr Demien was an eloquent speaker who spoke with passion Demien was a speaker. The other speaker was Dr Iman Santoso In Dungun, Terengganu, over 30 Marian Tan reported that in Bintulu, Christians in Bintulu praying at their rally. and conviction and without notes, saved for the three occasions who is the General Coordinator of National Prayer Network, members of the Dungun Elim Church about 70 people from New Life when he read passages from the Bible. Indonesia, which develops prayer networks in cities throughout ushered in Merdeka Day at midnight with Fellowship met on Merdeka Day to pray Believing that “the hour for Malaysia has come”, he said Indonesia. shouts of “Merdeka, Merdeka, Merdeka” for the nation. that God has heard the cries of His people in Malaysia and Earlier at the start of the rally, when introducing the guests- followed by “Jesus is Lord’ 14 times – Finally, NECF’s Ngeh Hoong Eng would move regardless of “the impossibilities, the giants, the of-honour representing the Government, NECF Secretary- one for each state. reported that over 1,000 Christians from mountains and what you see around you”. The Egyptian-born General Rev Wong Kim Kong said the Government recognised The meeting, held in Mandarin, was the Chinese churches attended the Klang medical doctor who now resides in Canada, recalled the time prayer and had personally asked the Christian community to attended by youths, adults and senior Valley Chinese rally at FGA Kuala when Israel was standing at the edge of Canaan after coming pray in times of crises – such as the bird flu crisis – and at citizens who interceded for unity among Lumpur on Aug 27. The meeting was out of Egypt. God was going to lead Israel into Canaan even critical moments, such as the recent general election. churches, evangelism within their well organised, with enough time for the though the Canaanites were like ‘giants’, he pointed out. The special guests were Ministers in the Prime Minister’s communities and a righteous government crowd to break for small-group “Do not let your fears of the impossibilities hinder you Department Tan Sri Bernard Dompok and Datuk Dr Maximus to prevail. Pr Patsy Lim said the meeting intercession, thus making the rally more MARCHING FOR JESUS: The 33-member contingent representing Alor Setar churches at from believing; do not let the giants of the land melt your heart,” Ongkili. Speaking on behalf of the Government, Tan Sri ended with a prayer of declaration that meaningful for the participants. the town’s Merdeka parade. he urged, and added that the Church had the responsibility to Dompok conveyed the Government’s appreciation for move God’s heart. organising the event to pray for the country. He revealed there “Sodom and Gomorrah were not destroyed because of their were at least four Christians in the Cabinet and they had been Merdeka Party in Singapore sins but because there were no 10 righteous people in the cities,” voicing Christian concern. “I see no way that religious freedom he remarked. Likewise, God was looking out for righteous people can be taken away from us,” he said. While he was thankful for ACROSS the causeway, Christians in in Singapore. who would intercede for their cities so that His judgement would religious freedom, he cautioned Christians to take the Singapore joined in the Merdeka “My dad’s from Penang. Without be averted. “In His wrath, He remembers mercy,” he reminded responsibility to defend this right. celebration at a fun-filled night themed Malaysia, there’s no me. God bless the attendees. Tan Sri Dompok’s message was followed by prayers from “Malaysiaku, Kampungku” (My Malaysia!.” wrote Ellen. “A good The rally was the final event of the NECF Malaysia Merdeka seven pastors and church leaders who each prayed over an aspect Malaysia, My Home). beginning to remember the root,” of the country including the Government, education, family, The gathering at TOUCH scribbled Kampong Boy Hak Ming. Fui KLANG VALLEY RALLY Orang Asli, and the Church. From left: Datin Joan and Datuk Dr Max Ongkili, Tan Sri Bernard Community theatre was spearheaded by Yan, evidently from Sabah, penned, “I Dompok, NECF Vice-Chairman Rev Dr Eu Hong Seng, and The rally climaxed in a time of intercession following Dr Rev Victor Wong, a Johor-born 30- love Malaysia. Malaysia Boleh, Sabah the speaker, Dr David Demien. Demien’s message where the attendees gathered in clusters to something pastor at FCBC, Singapore. Boleh...” pray for the nation. Many were seen and heard weeping as they Most of those who attended have ties to Cover of the Message Book prayed in response to the message. Malaysia in that they were either A peek inside the Message Book. Malaysian by birth and are now residing ELSEWHERE... in Singapore, or married to Malaysians Prayer rallies were also held all over Malaysia on various days. or they have relatives in Malaysia. Up north in Alor Setar, about 180 Christians from six English- For many who turned up, the night and Mandarin-speaking churches had a patriotic ending to their was a nostalgic occasion of lagu Melayu, rally on Aug 30 by singing at midnight, reported Pr satay and teh tarik Malaysian style. It was Kuilan. also a time to remember their roots and The following morning, 33 participants from five churches express their love for their birthland in took part in the town’s Merdeka Parade, marching under the intercession. banner “Gabungan Gereja-Gereja”. In the afternoon, the The participants also had the churches held a social gathering with the poor as the special opportunity to write messages on a book which was presented to NECF as a token • GO TO NEXT PAGE of love and friendship from Christians

10 BERITA NECF September – October 2004 September – October 2004 BERITA NECF 11 ISSUES MISSIONS Court’s Duty to Protect People’s Rights State of Our Missionaries MALAYSIA practices parliamentary Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Abdullah and her estranged husband, who has ReMAP II is a 22-nation study on long-term missionary retention and on having a clear calling and mature democracy and is ruled as a Constitutional Badawi affirmed that the judiciary was converted to Islam, and which also agency practices – what keeps them in ministry and what organisational Christian character, as well as the Monarchy, with the Yang di-Pertuan Agong indeed independent and there was no concerned the conversion of their two factors contribute to this. The survey was launched last year by the World endorsement of the home church pastors as the Head of the country. Theoretically, need to set up a royal commission to minor children to the Islamic faith, drew Evangelical Alliance Missions Commission, of which the NECF Malaysia or leaders. Importance was also given to the Constitution functions to create a restore its independence. The existing much attention and criticism from the Missions Commission is a member. The project in Malaysia was agreement with agency’s doctrinal form of government that is just and able system in the appointment of High Court public. coordinated by PHILIP CHANG, who is Intercare Chairman and a statements, knowledge of agency’s to meet the needs and requirements of judges – maintained by the Government The High Court judge, on one hand, member of the NECF Missions Commission as well as Asia Member Care principles and practices, good character the people. – was sufficient to ensure the ruled that the conversion endorsed by the Task Force. He is also an associate of the WEA Missions Commission. references and good health. The blessing It ensures that the leader exercises his independence of the institution, he said. Syariah court was not binding on the Currently he has a full-time job in the financial services sector. He reports of family is also an important factor that duties without abusing the power key observations of the study on Malaysia. is reflective of the local culture. Having accorded to him. As such, the Federal previous cross-cultural experience , the supreme “In order to perform its judicial functions THE respondents have been sending for Malaysian missionaries, Evangelism was of least importance. law of the land, explicitly holds the impartially, the judiciary must be independent, an average of 20 years. Hence, Malaysia and Church Planting among Education• An over- principle of separation of powers and is quite new as a sending country. The Unreached Peoples command whelming majority of divides the authority of the Federation that is independence of the individual judges total number of active long-term the highest percentage at 65.02% of Malaysian into Legislative (lawmaking body), in their exercise of judicial functions and missionaries sent as of Dec 31, 2002 was 35.24%. Taking second spot missionaries have a Judicial and Executive (ruling body) to 121. About 40.5% of them have children is Services at 21.94%. Bachelor degree, ensure the system of checks and balances. independence of the Judiciary as an aged below 21 years. This is lower than About one-fifth or diploma or the The judicial authority of Malaysia is institution.” the global figures as well as other regional 19.17% are equivalent. Another vested in the Federal Court, the High figures. involved in 11.51% have a Master’s degree Courts and Subordinate Courts. Presently, It is a common fact that the majority Social and and only a small percentage of 1.85% the Federal Court is the highest court in Furthermore, the Government has always Hindu mother and that the father “cannot of long-term missionaries from Malaysia Community Work, 13.69% in have doctorate degrees. Malaysia. The Head of the Judiciary is adhered to the principle of separation of literally convert the children without the are singles and mostly women. However, Evangelism and Church Planting among Pastoral Member Care• Malaysian the Chief Justice of the Federal Court. powers. (Bernama, July 20, 2004) consent of the mother. They were in recent years, there has been an increase people with more than 1% evangelicals, senders spent on average about 10% of The Court plays an important role in Nonetheless, we cannot afford to converted in a shroud of secrecy and in the number of married couples with and lastly, 9.96% in Supporting Ministries their total time and about 10% of their interpreting the law and protecting the ignore the public concerns over the hence there was no automatic children venturing out into long-term to existing churches such as Bible budget on pastoral care. However, only aspiration of the Constitution. It is independence, impartiality and integrity conversion.” On the other hand, he missions, which is a healthy trend. teaching and pastoral. Overall, nearly half 14.71% of these resources represent empowered to hear and determine civil of the Malaysian Judiciary. Two placed a caveat on the mother, who was Allowances• The estimated of all Malaysian missionaries are involved preventive member care. This is rather and criminal matters, as well as to fundamental questions have been raised: granted actual custody of their children, percentage set aside for retirement is in Evangelism and Church Planting work. poor compared to the global average of pronounce on the legality of any 1. Is the rule of law in this country that she would lose her right if there 8.77%, which is similar to global averages. Candidate Selection• Malaysian legislative or executive acts. equally applicable to all citizens? were grounds to believe she might Ministry Priorities• Among mission senders place the most emphasis • GO TO NEXT PAGE By law, justice is to be granted in 2. Is the law enforcement conducted “influence the children’s present religious disputes not only between citizens and without fear and favour? beliefs or make them eat pork” (The Star, citizens but also between citizens and the July 21, 2004). • FROM PREVIOUS PAGE to the attitude of the Malaysian judiciary. and uncorrupt judges.” – Tun Hussein government and its agencies. Public Losing Faith Indirectly, he confirmed the Raja Muda of Perak Raja Nazrin Shah Onn, when opening the 10th Law Asia The constitutional role of judges is The Malaysian Judiciary was said to be conversion, thus denying the mother’s offence committed when they still then eloquently said that “the sovereignty conference on 29 June 1987, Kuala to deliver their judgment in accordance independent until 1988 when a number right as equal party in the choice of embraced the Islamic faith” ( New Straits of the law cannot be compromised and Lumpur. Besides being free from with the law and the evidence presented of suits against the Government resulted religion for her children. Such Times, July 21, 2004). should instead be protected in a firm, interference – be it from the legislature before them, independent of political or in the attacks on the Judiciary by several contradictory statements could not The questions on citizens’ consti- bold, transparent and open manner” or executive – accountability and improper influences. Therefore, a members of the Government. The persuade the public on the impartiality tutional right to renounce their religion – (NST, Aug 10, 2004). The guardian of transparency of the judiciary are essential decision made by the court may not subsequent removal of judges including and sound judgment of the said judge, in particular, the Islamic faith – posed by this sovereignty is the civil judiciary, who for democracy in this country. conform to government policy, or a state the Lord President Tun Salleh Abbas, and and the existing laws to ensure religious the appellants, were left unanswered. By must ensure that the people’s rights are Therefore, it is crucial for Christians project may be suspended in view of the ultimately the amendment of Article 125 freedom were consequently ignored. declining to answer, the Federal Court, protected and that everyone is treated to understand the judicial authority of right of some individuals or organization. of the Federal Constitution, raised A subsequent case on apostasy also in effect, suspended a person’s right to equally before the law. Malaysia, the importance of the role of To put it simply, the judges’ duty is to awareness on the deterioration in judicial raised public discontent. The Chief choose his/her religion, which However, we must not dismiss the courts in the application of the law safeguard and protect the people’s independence. Justice on July 21 dismissed the appeal contravened the provisions in the sound and impartial judgments with without fear and favour, and finally to fundamental freedoms and rights Further, the narrow interpretations of by four Kelantanese (one deceased while Constitution. emphasis on public interests in our uphold the system and the judges in provided by the Constitution. the Constitution, instances of refusals to in imprisonment) for a declaration that judicial history. The upright judgments prayer. – Report by Lim Siew Foong, NECF In order to perform its judicial exercise jurisdiction and inconsistencies the Syariah Court had no jurisdiction over Dilemma of Two Courts are beacons of hope to the public. But, Research Executive functions impartially, the judiciary must in decisions by some judges have created them. The above examples also indicate the while there are judges whose integrity and be independent, that is independence of doubts in the integrity of the system as a “Although they had declared dilemma of dual jurisdiction (Syariah and impartiality are commendable, there is Note: This article is available in its complete form the individual judges in their exercise of whole. Today, when there is a case before themselves murtad (apostates) in 1998, Civil). A recent public seminar in June at still a need to restore public confidence. on the NECF website in the “Research” section. judicial functions and independence of the court, the most probable question to they can still be brought before the Syariah the Bar Council pointed out that issues It is not enough for the Government The article ends with a name list of all the judges the Judiciary as an institution. first arise is, “Who is the judge?”. Court in 2000 because it concerns an of religious freedom, conversion and alone to have confidence in the judiciary. in Malaysia and links to the government judiciary In his written response to an issue The recent July verdict on a child renunciation, particularly in family “… the judiciary would count for website which explains the role of the various raised at the Dewan Rakyat recently, custody case involving a Hindu woman • GO TO NEXT PAGE disputes, remain unresolved mainly due naught unless it is made up of fearless court.

12 BERITA NECF September – October 2004 September – October 2004 BERITA NECF 13 MISSIONS COMINGUP

• FROM PREVIOUS PAGE: STATE OF OUR MISSIONARIES 2003 Merdeka Charity Campaign Family Life Ministry 27.6%. This strongly suggests that more effort and resources A total of RM 370,000 was distributed to 51 charitable should be devoted to preventive member care such as prevention, Conference homes and organisations, of which 36 are run by Christians. personal development and support, rather than responsive care RARELY does one find a conference with or crisis resolution. NECF Research Commission will release in September Christian Charitable Organisations eight speakers, all with intimate experience of Communication and Leadership• Malaysian mission the fourth installation of its WATCHMEN’S FORUM, a True Light Vision Centre, Kedah and well-qualified to speak on their subjects. leaders gave top ratings to a culture of prayer being actively compilation of research articles focussing on current Relau Rumah Charis, Penang At this conference, participants will be fed a promoted within the agency and leaders as a good example of issues. This time, the theme is “The Realities of Jesus Cares Centre, Taiping rich diet of family development skills by this the agency’s beliefs and values, which are quite consistent with Christian Living”. Among the articles are “Faith and Persatuan Perkhidmatan Komuniti Taiping variety of speakers. most other countries. On the other hand, lowest rating was Fengshui”, “Christians and Knowledge Economy”, Ray of Hope, Ipoh By the end of the conference, they will be equipped to lead given to the handling of complaints from missionaries. Perhaps “Cronyism in Asia” and “ Christian Earthkeeping”. The The Vineyard Keeper, Ipoh the family-life ministries in their local church, as well as interface this is a cultural thing or it could be the lack of experience or book is available from NECF office at RM10 per copy. Salvation Army Home for the Aged, Ipoh with other churches and pro-family organisations on matters knowledge in dealing with such issues. Diamond Home, Air Tawar, Perak involving family life. The conference will richly benefit Christians Ministry• Top ratings were given to commitment to Kenosis Home, KL leading family ministries in their church and family-life related ministry and loyalty to the agency. Like most other countries, Rumah Sayangan, KL organisations. The speakers are: Malaysian missionaries were seen to be overloaded in the amount New Members We welcome the following into our Fellowship as Ordinary Bridges EIP, PJ John Bethany, Director of International Relations for Asia- of work they do. As far as Ministry Outcome is concerned, Members: Good Samaritan Home, Klang Pacific and Africa of Focus On The Family (FOTF) USA; mission leaders strongly believed that the churches on the field Cornerstone Drug Centre, Klang David Leong, Executive Director of Scripture Union (SU) value the ministries of our missionaries, and that they are • Calvary Charismatic Centre, KL, pastored by Winston Chew; Dayspring Training Centre, Klang Singapore as well as SU East Asia Children’s Ministry Network developing good relationships with the people they serve. In • City Harvest Church, PJ, pastored by Kevin Loo Seng Pung; Reach Community Centre, Dengkil, Negri Sembilan Coordinator; general, ministry outcomes have been rated positively. • In-Touch Trinity Baptist Centre, KL, pastored by by Clarine Persatuan Kebajikan Charis Cheras, Ulu Langat, KL Lee Wee Min, Executive Chairman of FOTF Malaysia; Personal Care and Family Support• Highest ratings were Chun; New Creation Centre, Kajang Pr Dr Lew Lee Choo, a paediatrician who is now a pastor given to emphasis being placed on the maintenance and growth • SIB KL (BM), pastored by Kenny Tham Yun Ken; Ark Drug Rehabilitation, Kajang at SIB Kuala Lumpur where her husband, Dr Chew Weng Chee of personal spiritual life. Two items scored quite poorly; firstly, • The Salvation Army, Melaka, represented Esther Ong; and Living Water Assembly of God, Tampin, Negri Sembilan (formerly a gynaecologist), serves as Senior Pastor; the resolution of interpersonal conflicts in a timely and • New Life Restoration Centre, Shah Alam, pastored by Lee Salvation Army Homes, Melaka Bruce Peppin, Director of International Communications appropriate manner; and secondly, the satisfactory schooling Chin Ban Shekinah Home Services, Melaka of FOTF USA; opportunities for missionary kids or MKs. On the resolution Calvary Care Home, Melaka Daniel Scott Mays, Director and International Consultant of interpersonal conflicts, this could perhaps be related to the We also welcome 8 Associate Members: Pr Richard Engan; Rev Lian Mong King; Rev Alan Thayalan a/l Sivalingam; Pr Kaliappan Gospel to the Poor, Pahang of Lifeway Australasia, Africa and India; and low rating given to the availability of documented and adequate a/l Palanisamy; Charis Quay Huei Li; Mr Lim Sun Heng; Rev Joseph Rumah Keluarga Kami, Kajang Tan Ah Eng, an afternoon supervisor in a national procedures for handling complaints of missionaries, as well as Hong, Ikpyo; and Ms Chen Yoke Ming. Community Services Centre, KL secondary school in Petaling Jaya. the relatively low level of resources given to preventive member Home for the Aged, Ipoh care. As for MK schooling, this could also be related to the Conference Date: October 22–23 (Friday and Saturday) Beautiful Gate, PJ/KL/Seremban relatively low percentage of missionary families with children; During the two-year period between Jan 1, 2001 and Dec Time: 9.00am to 5.00pm Migrant Ministry Klang hence, sending agencies and churches may generally be lacking 31, 2002, the percentage of Malaysian missionaries who left Venue: Tropicana Golf and Country Resort, Petaling Jaya Malaysian CARE in terms of experience and knowledge in dealing with MK the field including retirement was 2.94%, which is significantly Registration fee: RM150 per person Rapha Homes, Pahang education. lower than the global average of 5.42%, but slightly higher Organised by: Focus on the Family (FOTF) Malaysia and Rumah Damai, Terengganu Finances• High ratings were given to having sustained than the new sending countries’ average of 2.72%. These NECF Malaysia Persatuan Kebajikan Kalvari Segamat, Johor financial support and the transparency in handling finances. Malaysian missionaries who returned had served an average of Eagles Nest, Kajang On the other hand, low rating was given to the availability of 7.43 years, compared to the global average of 9.11 years. For more information, contact FOTF at 03-5882 3343 (tel.) CARNet (Children At Risk) financial back-up for missionaries with low or irregular support. [email protected] (e-mail). Step-by-Step Early Intervention Centre, KL This is indeed a serious problem - if missionaries do not receive Lessons from the research Compassionate Dept., Zoe Christian Fellowship, Selangor enough or regular support, it is only a matter of time before From this survey, the obvious key areas for improvement are: they are forced to leave the field prematurely. One Malaysian handling of complaints from missionaries, dealing with Others missionary once remarked, “We missionaries don’t just live on interpersonal conflicts, and re-entry arrangements. The survey Thanksgiving Tea Lembaga Pelawat Rumah Seri Kenangan, Bedong Kedah fresh air and fresh water alone; in fact, most missionaries live also suggests that more investment is required in terms of Community AIDS Service Penang The NECF Malaysia Prayer and Research and serve in hard places where there is not even any fresh air training and dissemination of information to be given to mission Asia Community Service, Penang commissions are jointly organising the tea to nor fresh water!” agencies and churches on the areas mentioned above, while Yayasan Sultan Idris Shah, Ipoh review God’s goodness during the year. Home Office• Malaysian mission leaders gave positive adequate resources should be channeled towards preventive Persatuan Kebajikan Orang-Orang Kurang Upaya, Ipoh ratings for most agency practices, with the highest rating given member care. Independent Living and Training Centre, Rawang to home office staff praying regularly for their missionaries. In addition, as Malaysia matures in mission sending, more Date: Dec 4, 2004 (Saturday) Persatuan Kanak-Kanak Istimewa Hulu Langat, KL Lowest rating was given to re-entry arrangements being provided families rather than singles will be going out. The issue of MK Time: 2pm – 6pm Pusat Penjagaan Kanak-Kanak Cacat Taman Megah, PJ for missionaries returning for home leave. This is clearly an schooling therefore needs to be addressed adequately and MK Venue: Level 4, Wisma FGA, Kuala Lumpur Yayasan Kajian & Pembangunan Masyarakat, Selayang area of weakness, which requires much more improvement in Care would become even more relevant in time to come. Pusat Haemodialysis Mawar, Seremban the Malaysian context. Joy Training Workshop, Melaka All are welcome to celebrate God’s Retention (or the number of missionaries still in active Note: This is an excerpt. The complete article first appeared in “The ROTARY Hospice Programme, JB faithfulness. The organiser ministries)• The total Retention Rate for Malaysia is 95.79%, Connections”, published by the WEA Missions Commission. The booklet, Persatuan Hospis Negeri Kelantan appreciates a love gift of RM5 whereas the Retention Rate for Unpreventable Attrition is which also contains full reports from other countries, is available from Hospice Association of Sandakan, Sabah per person to cover cost. 96.97% and Retention Rate for Preventable Attrition is higher Intercare at RM10 each. Contact tel. 03-7784 8430 or e-mail Kuching Hospice Cancer Care, at 98.82%. [email protected]

14 BERITA NECF September – October 2004 September – October 2004 BERITA NECF 15 CHILE give them His love for their persecutors; region has been inundated with Islamist and that the people of Bulgaria will tracts inciting hatred of Christians. The THE archbishop of Santiago decried the rejoice to be part of the Body of Christ Islamists are urging local Muslims to existence of Satanic groups in Chile in wherever He is truly worshipped. marry and convert young Christian girls, the wake of the July murder of a priest as well as drive Christians out by raising VIETNAM in the metropolitan cathedral. Servite rents and refusing to let property to them. Father Faustino Gazziero de Stefani, 68, THE Vietnam Evangelical Fellowship Bishop Yves Steven of Extreme was slain after he had celebrated Mass. (VEF) has just released a statement on North Province reports some Christians Archbishop Cardinal Francisco Vietnam’s new Ordinance on Religion, have already been forcibly evicted from Errázuriz, who is also president of the due to take effect on Nov 15. The VEF their homes. Unless this threat is tackled country’s episcopate lamented that is an organisation of about 30 decisively, the situation could deteriorate legislative proposals to curb Satanic unregistered house church organisations with northern Cameroon descending into groups have not been addressed with representing many hundreds of house religious conflict. Please pray an greater care. He warned that “the churches. The Aug 30 letter states, “This outpouring of the Holy Spirit will revive phenomenon of Satanism in Chile, as in Ordinance will create many problems and the churches of Cameroon (and all West other countries of the world, is growing disadvantages for the church, especially Africa), so that they will be emboldened strongly”. Numerous groups are active for our gatherings for worship. At the and effective with the gospel of salvation in the country, especially in the cities, same time, it is likely to permanently and transformation; that God will grant although in recent years their presence outlaw our house church organisations, the government wise judgment, a hatred has also spread to minor urban centers. none of which have been recognised of corruption, and a commitment to Authorities identified the assailant as since 1975. Many articles in this justice; and that God will redeem this Rodrigo Orias Gallardo, 25. After killing Ordinance will also provide a legal basis stressful, threatening situation for His Father Faustino, the youth knelt down by for local authorities to hinder and purpose and glory: in the face of this his side invoking Satan’s name. persecute the church.” threat. May the Cameroonian churches, Pray this tragic event will lead people This new law purportedly guarantees especially their leaders, be motivated to in Chile to renounce any connection with religious freedom in one article but uses love and unity, holiness, discipleship, Satanism, and that the leadership in all most of the remaining 40 articles for mission and prayer. churches worldwide will call upon detailing a long series of complicated ERITREA Christians to recognise evil, calling upon regulations to ensure close state the powerful Name of Jesus to combat management of religious activity. REV Haile Naizgi and Dr Kiflu the works of Satan. Pray that all believers in local areas Gebremeske, leaders of the Full Gospel would faithfully gather to worship the Church, have been imprisoned without BULGARIA Lord and stand firm in all circumstances any legal charge by the government since ACCORDING to the Bulgarian Helsinki (Acts. 5:41–42); that all leaders of the May 23, and Pr Tesfatsion Hagos of the Committee (BHC), police allegedly closed churches, all leaders of small groups, all Rema Evangelical Church since May 26. down 250 churches nationwide and of the host families of churches would Meanwhile, evangelical pastor Mengse detained several priests in the largest have the wisdom and courage needed to Tweldemedhane and popular Christian crackdown on clergy since the collapse lead the flock (Acts. 4:29–30); that the singer Yonas Haile managed to escape of Communism. Officials disputed the government of all levels from the central from the Sawa Military Center and flee numbers and said Bulgarian police evicted to the local, throughout all of Vietnam, to Sudan in late June. Christian vocalist dissident Orthodox priests from dozens will soon recognise God’s sovereignty so Helen Berhane remains under severe of churches across the country, which that they will withdraw the Ordinance confinement in a shipping container since they were occupying in defiance of a 2001 issued on June 18, 2004, so that they will her arrest on May 13. Despite the Eritrean law that handed their property to the give up their prejudices towards the Constitution’s guarantees of religious traditional church. Church, and stop all forms of persecution freedom, President Isaias Afewerki The BHC has criticised the and hindrances to the Church’s activities. closed down the independent Protestant Denominations Act that awarded churches in May 2002, forbidding the CAMEROON properties to the traditional church. 20,000 members of 12 banned Pray the Holy Spirit will move in RELIGIOUS tension is rising in northern denominations to worship even in their power to unite the rival bodies of the Cameroon (which borders troubled homes. Pray that Christians worldwide Orthodox Church and the Alternative northern Nigeria) as foreign Islamists will protest this inhumane and illegal Synod, bringing them together in their infiltrate to stir up the local Muslims treatment of Christians; that God will love for Jesus; that He will draw close to against the local Christians. The protect the prisoners who were able to the priests who have been detained and Cameroonian authorities report that the escape and other prisoners still in jail.

16 BERITA NECF PRINTED BY CALVARY PRESS September – October 2004