The latest is the Malaysian Consultative Council of Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism and Taoism (MCCBCHST).
In a statement on Wednesday, the MCCBCHST expressed regret that Malaysian authorities had not taken action to prevent the Indian national from entering the country.
“Malaysia has a reputation for being a tolerant, multi-religious and pluralistic democracy. It also positions herself as a moderate Muslim polity.
“Purported teachers of religion who are sponsored, even by state authorities, that have a tendency to incite hatred, odium and contempt on the practices, rituals and food of other ethno-religious groups are totally unacceptable,” it said.
The statement added: “Zakir’s words and talks are highly provocative to non-Muslim communities. He has been banned from entry into certain countries. In his own country he has been subject to various court summonses.”
The Sun Daily reported the MCCBCHST as saying that while it supported freedom of speech and expression, any discourse touching on religion and beliefs should be subject to the parameters set forth in the Penal Code generally and more specifically to the bar of public reason and civility.
According to a report in The Star, the MCCBCHST referred to specific sections in Malaysia’s Penal Code that protect against actions that offend the religious feelings of others or which create hatred and disharmony.
“MCCBCHST, therefore, calls upon the government to withdraw the visa granted to Dr Zakir Naik to be in Malaysia,” it said.
Recently, 19 Malaysians initiated legal proceedings against the government and four others to get a court order to declare Zakir a threat to national security.
Among those behind the move are former deputy minister in the Prime Minister’s Department P Waythamoorthy, activist Dr Lim Teck Ghee, Sabah STAR (Parti Solidariti Tanah Airku) president Dr Jeffrey Kitingan and lawyer Siti Zabedah Kassim.
Several Indian organisations have also called on the government not to entertain Zakir as he had allegedly demeaned other religions.
India’s National Investigation Agency (NIA) has issued a notice to Zakir to present himself for questioning on March 14. The NIA accuses him and his organisation in India of inciting Muslim youth to indulge in violence, and promoting enmity between different communities on the basis of religion and race.
Bangladesh has banned his Peace TV, alleging it incited the attack on a Dhaka café, resulting in 22 deaths last year.