Aaron said the joint committee, co-managed by his ministry and the Islamic development department (Jakim), has three sub-committees which are to ensure effective coordination in promoting religious harmony in Malaysia.
He said this included the religious issues and mediation bureau, which focusses on mediation as an alternative method to resolve religious disputes.
“The concept of ‘understand, respect and accept’ must be embraced by all Malaysians to bridge differences within our multiracial and multi-religious society,” he said in a statement today.
“It is a fundamental principle that is not only aimed at strengthening the spirit of unity and togetherness among the people, but also at addressing issues concerning interfaith harmony, fostering mutual respect and deepening understanding.”
Aaron’s statement follows concerns raised by the Malaysian Consultative Council of Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism and Taoism (MCCBCHST) over purported plans to place Jakim officers in every government department.
Citing the 1988 Che Omar Che Soh case in its objection, MCCBCHST said Jakim’s encroachment into the public sphere might be unconstitutional as it could affect the fundamental rights guaranteed to all Malaysians.
However, some quarters like PAS have accused the interfaith council of Islamophobia and alleged its legal interpretation only served to disguise MCCBCHST’s “darker and more dangerous true intentions”.
Religious affairs minister Na’im Mokhtar, who will meet the interfaith council tomorrow to clarify the matter, had said the Jakim officers would not be involved in policy matters.
In his statement, Aaron also said the unity ministry had appointed 562 community mediators to manage social and unity-related issues within communities.
“The ministry, through the national unity and integration department, is always ready to provide community mediator services to manage issues related to unity and harmony among the people in the country.”
Aaron said while Malaysia’s diversity presented challenges, it could also be a source of strength when managed effectively, contributing to the country’s goal of becoming a harmonious and united nation.