Malaysia may not be an Islamic state officially but, according to the country’s former prime minister, that’s what it is in reality. It doesn’t matter either way, says Mahathir Mohamad, because all Malaysians enjoy full and equal rights.  Right!

"Officially we are not an Islamic state, neither are we a secular state. But by definition, as recognized by most international societies, Malaysia is an Islamic state," Mahathir told reporters.

But that doesn't mean non-Muslims are deprived of their rights, Mahathir said.

Anyway, everyone should stop making such a row about it.

Mahathir said too much talk about such issues could prove harmful for the multiracial country, in which Chinese comprise about 25 percent of the population and Indians 10 percent.

"I think it is not leading us anywhere except to create a lot of problems," he said.

"People have never suffered in Malaysia. . . .”

Except for Muslims who convert to Christianity.

Mr Mahathir’s comments muddied the waters of a national debate so troubling that a few weeks ago the security minister banned media from reporting it.  Last month the deputy prime minister said Malaysia is an Islamic state, but last weekend the prime minister contradicted his deputy, saying it is neither theocratic nor secular.

Is that any way to run a country?

h/t: International Christian Concern

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