Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department, Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki said this was important for these NGOs to remain as pressure groups when any problem related to Islam cropped up.

“In matters involving Islam and Islamic interest, no matter which party (or organisation) we are from, which ideology (we subscribe to)…we should speak in one voice and in the same tone.

“In this context, Islamic NGOs must always play a role as groups which always enlighten and create awareness so as to provide a balance for the conflicting political parties,” he said after opening a Kelantan Islamic NGOs discourse and Aidilfitri celebration, here, today.

Asyraf Wajdi said Islamic NGOs should champion matters based on truth, besides cooperating with each other as enjoined by the religion, in matters involving Islam.

“This should be the role of Islamic NGOs and intellectuals without being tied down to any sentiments or ideology.

“I’ve personally seen the tendency for certain groups to indulge in politicking, belong to political parties, or supporting (a political party) and without being objective on matters.

“Now we seldom hear Islamic NGOs calling on the political parties representing the Malays to sit down at the discussion table and struggle for a cause together.”

He said this was because the NGOs had chosen to tie themselves down to certain political parties.