Majalah Al-Hikmah Edisi ke 16

MA JA L AH A L - H I KMAH 39 Representing the Presbyterian Christians, David Chong welcomes any future policy that would promote social harmony and unity without interfering with other religions. Muhibah , or any other policy that could promote social harmony among all religious communities in Malaysia, is appreciated. He stresses the importance of the people of the book to encourage Muhibah , which connotes the meaning of racial reconciliation, social equality, and mutual appreciation. If we fail to do so, “we undermine resources from our own faith for these fundamental values.” Mohammad, and Muhammad Kamal Hassan, assert that this concept can promote social harmony. Its values transcend all cultures, religions, and traditions. According to Kamar Oniah, this idea “is a good sentiment to be promoted in Malaysia, as it is rooted in our culture.” Haslina also agrees that Muhibah is more cultivating, as “it is rooted in our soil.” It is a social concept developed by Tunku Abdul Rahman, who proposed a practical solution to the problem of integration that existed at one point in time in the country. Haslina, like many other scholars, believes that it should be encouraged in our society. The meaning of Muhibah was, at first, loosely linked with tolerance, respect, and love, at its root being love ( mahabbah ). Muhibah signifies co-existence, togetherness, kinship, love and affection, sympathy and empathy, and respect and decorum. It is introduced based on agreement and sincerity in accepting each other as fellowMalaysians. Tan Kong Beng, the representative of the Christian Federation Malaysia, is aware of the idea of Muhibah and wishes to see its positive and constructive values being upheld in everyday life, which he called “living a life of understanding and harmony.” Muhibah , or love in ourselves, is granted by God, and we must not let God test us with this value.” Beng reminds us that this principle had bound Malaysian society together in the past and should be promulgated to the young generations. The values that make up Muhibah consist of sincerity, integrity, assisting one’s neighbors, being mindful of others, and moderation.