Assalaam alaikum.
Ramadhan mubarak.
As you are aware, your task in this course is to construct "arguments" to justify or defend a "position". Thus the term "Position Paper". So what you are expected to do is to write position papers. Although much of what many of you have written is really interesting, the way it is written is not convincing. It would be wonderful if you could learn how to convince people to agree with your opinion and to persuade them to be on your side.
I have foud a book online which will be very useful in your efforts to become better and more convincing writers: "Essays and Arguments: A Handbook on Writing Argumentative and Interpretative Essays" by Ian Johnston. You can read it here: http://records.viu.ca/~johnstoi/arguments/argument1.htm
Please read it before you post your next position paper.
Thanks.
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Thursday, August 20, 2009
POSITION PAPER NO.2
“ Of course religion is important. But, I am a Malay first before I become a Muslim. Discuss.”
From my point of view, I do think that both elements, religion and race, are equally important. It seems that in some occasions, race is important and in certain situations, religion is essential. However, it is strongly agree that religion especially Islam is the most crucial part in life since it is a guideline for us to live our life to the fullest.
Why do I say that race is also important? It is because it shows our differences from the other races and cultures. Besides, it also indicates our uniqueness in our lifestyle among multiracial society in Malaysia. Yes, I am Malay first before we are introduced to the religion in my life. However, I believe that religion has its own significance since it determines our path throughout the life either it is positive or negative. It is all depends on us how to manage our life properly. It is not based on our culture or race, but most importantly based on our belief and faith. In addition, in doing things in life, religion should be the first thing we should consider. As Muslims, we are abide by rules which is stated in Al-Quran and As-Sunnah as a guidance for us in doing things rightly and successfully. Unfortunately, people nowadays tend to protect race and culture better rather than religion. For example, there are certain issues in Malay customs that are obviously wrong and should be left since it is contradict with religion aspects. But, those people still implement it in their life. For instance, the “bomoh” things. It is definitely brings more negative elements rather than positive elements in one’s life and it is certainly one of the prohibited things according to Islamic Law since people tend to believe in other things beside Allah. So, how come people still trust on those things?
Furthermore, being a Muslim is vital because there is judgment regarding on practicing it in future life, in hereafter life. On the other hand, there is no judgment on how best your race is or how best your culture is. Being a Muslim, each individual will be judged pertaining to the way he or she performing and living his or her life either according to Islamic law or not. Then, Muslims also will be asked how best they do what they have to do which means permissible things and how much things do they have left for the prohibited elements. So, here we can see, even though both elements, race and religion, come and created by the same Creator, but in terms of judgments it is totally different. It emphasizes more on religious elements. At that moments, it does not matter either you are Malay, Chinese, Indians, English, Hispanics or Africans as long as you are Muslim who are doing your duty in the right manner and leave all the prohibited things as that are required and stated in Al-Quran and Al-Sunnah. It is because one’s faith and belief will determine his success in life although it will have a little influences of his race and culture.
As a conclusion, I can say that religion is the most influential elements in dealing with situation happens in our life. However, i am not saying that race and culture are not important, it is just as a cognition for the people uniqueness and identity that will help them to communicate and respect the others in well manner.
Prepared by Nurul Farhana Sulong (0724700)
NURASIKIN A.HALIM
0814226
POSITION PAPER2.
Malays proverbs or idioms like “takkan Melayu Hilang di Dunia” or “adat di junjung, pemimpin di julang” it shows how Malays society proud of their customs as an important parts of their life, instead of their religion. In facts, SOME of Malays cultures and customs are not contradict to Islam. For example, respecting the elderly, how to treat the guests, and many more. Yes, it is undoubtedly that some people believe that Muslim MUST be Malay. It also clearly stated in the Federal constitution article 160(2) defined Malay as a person who professes the religion of Islam, habitually speaks the Malay language , conforms to Malay custom and was born before Merdeka Day in the Federation or in Singapore or born of parents who born in Federal or in Singapore after the Merdeka Day.
However, in my point of views, “I am Muslim first than Malay”. Why I wrote such statement? Hmm…it is because of many factors and the way I was being up-bringing. The first factor is because, I do not mind if what I do is not part of my custom as long as it is not contradicted to Islam. For example, I always asking (or might say arguing) with my grandmother about certain action she prohibited us(my sibling and I) to do - like sit at the door or stairs, cutting the nails during night, eat like chicken limp and heart, singing while cooking at the kitchen, do not going outside after Maghrib, and many more. I am always asking why I cannot do this and that because it is not stated in hadis or al-Quran that these acts (what I mentioned above) are prohibited. In Islam, it is allowed to eat heart and limp of animal that had been slaughtered well because in one versus of al- Quran stated that clearly that “only two types of blood is law full to eat which is not considered as najis which are limp and heart”. So I always argue with my granny about it and I will use all those knowledge to make me win. Sometimes, I think that all superstitious are ridiculous and rubbish because I can not think what are the significances to have all these superstitious. I still remember one incident that my dad wants to slaughter a chicken. At that time we were at my uncle’s house at somewhere village in Johor. At that particular time, some of my uncles and aunts are there together with my granny. I came to my dad and I said to him that I want to do the slaughter to the chicken. My dad asked me that can I do it (the slaughtering job). I said I can do it because I have learned it at religious school and I also have done a practical and my ustaz said I have passed it because I have followed all the rukn. However my granny saw that incident and she yelled at us(my dad and I). She said that women can not do that slaughtering job. So, I asked her, why women can not? Because what I learned it never stated that only men can do it. So I am asking and arguing with my granny about that matter. She said that women are not allowed to do it. She called me stubborn girl and always asking and arguing what elderly said (prohibited things). It happen when I was in forms three.
The second reason is because I’m not really practicing Malay lifestyle like it is must to eat rice everyday, eat with hands, sit “bersimpuh”, wearing sarong (kain batik), or others. I would like to bring a story about my friend name Lim. He is my friend who always about Islam and Malay. What are the differences? Why some Malay wearing tudung, some not? Why I always go for prayer? Why Malay does not eat pork and wine? Why some Malay does not perform their prayer? Why you believe The God that you can not see? He said, he have asked same questions for many his Malay friends but never got answers or else he will be scolded y them because asking such a sensitive issues. And he really glad because I answered all his questions and he satisfied with my answers. In fact, he said that how come I can seat with him during break time and eat together (of course he will not eat any non-halal foods because he respect me that I am Muslim not because I’m Malay). It is very rare if you can see that those typical Malay or I can say conservative Malay to eat together with non-Malays.in fact, I go to my additional Mathematics teacher Mr. Ngoi Yoon Koy and my chemistry teacher Mr. Lim Hun Poh during Chinese New Years. In facts, both my teachers really care about us (my friends and I). Why I’m saying so, both my teachers really respect us as Muslim and they really care about the foods and drinks. They not give us beer or any non-halal foods to us because they will show us that the foods they provides have “Halal” from JAKIM. I think they respect us because we are Muslim and not because we are Malay. If they respect us because we are Malay than they will need to provides Malays foods and not dates or sweets and some nuts.
I would like to say that, I’m more proud when people recognize me as Muslim rather than Malay because as Muslim I need to follow the comprehensive guidelines that have been revealed to His messenger. In facts, when I realize I’m Muslim, I need to work hard and do something for Muslim out there. I can not become too rigid like certain type of Malay attitudes. I can compromise to any races as long as they respect me as Muslims. In facts, I can easily help people, not because of their races but because of their religious because all Muslims are siblings no matter who he is, or what his colour or even his races. If I’m Malay first, than it is hard for me to go to other races because I will become racism and always think about my races significant rather than their belief or religious.
I’m choosing Islam first because as a Muslim I have been taught to do what Muslim should do. For example, keeps on promise, be punctual, cleanliness as part of Iman, respect others even though he is kufr (as long as they not do something harmful to our religion or us). Why I said so, it is because; Malays attitudes towards other races are differ than Islam thoughts. How Malays practice on punctuality or time is differ to Islam thoughts. If Malays really practicing the Islamic thoughts, than they will not come late or there will not exist such a word like “biasala, janji Melayu”.
In a nutshell, I’m going to say that, out there, there may some Malays who used to make Islam complicated because of their perception that “Islam belong to Malays”. But I would like to correct that beliefs and that perception. Islam is for all, and not only for certain races. Do not make religious become hard just because you think it is hard. For example, we can wear any clothes or dress as long as it is covered your aurah. If wearing cheongsam can cover your aurah, than let it is. Do not judge others just because what they are wearing.
P/s: I’m sorry if my statement is too harsh to somebody, I just want to share what is my opinion
0814226
POSITION PAPER2.
Malays proverbs or idioms like “takkan Melayu Hilang di Dunia” or “adat di junjung, pemimpin di julang” it shows how Malays society proud of their customs as an important parts of their life, instead of their religion. In facts, SOME of Malays cultures and customs are not contradict to Islam. For example, respecting the elderly, how to treat the guests, and many more. Yes, it is undoubtedly that some people believe that Muslim MUST be Malay. It also clearly stated in the Federal constitution article 160(2) defined Malay as a person who professes the religion of Islam, habitually speaks the Malay language , conforms to Malay custom and was born before Merdeka Day in the Federation or in Singapore or born of parents who born in Federal or in Singapore after the Merdeka Day.
However, in my point of views, “I am Muslim first than Malay”. Why I wrote such statement? Hmm…it is because of many factors and the way I was being up-bringing. The first factor is because, I do not mind if what I do is not part of my custom as long as it is not contradicted to Islam. For example, I always asking (or might say arguing) with my grandmother about certain action she prohibited us(my sibling and I) to do - like sit at the door or stairs, cutting the nails during night, eat like chicken limp and heart, singing while cooking at the kitchen, do not going outside after Maghrib, and many more. I am always asking why I cannot do this and that because it is not stated in hadis or al-Quran that these acts (what I mentioned above) are prohibited. In Islam, it is allowed to eat heart and limp of animal that had been slaughtered well because in one versus of al- Quran stated that clearly that “only two types of blood is law full to eat which is not considered as najis which are limp and heart”. So I always argue with my granny about it and I will use all those knowledge to make me win. Sometimes, I think that all superstitious are ridiculous and rubbish because I can not think what are the significances to have all these superstitious. I still remember one incident that my dad wants to slaughter a chicken. At that time we were at my uncle’s house at somewhere village in Johor. At that particular time, some of my uncles and aunts are there together with my granny. I came to my dad and I said to him that I want to do the slaughter to the chicken. My dad asked me that can I do it (the slaughtering job). I said I can do it because I have learned it at religious school and I also have done a practical and my ustaz said I have passed it because I have followed all the rukn. However my granny saw that incident and she yelled at us(my dad and I). She said that women can not do that slaughtering job. So, I asked her, why women can not? Because what I learned it never stated that only men can do it. So I am asking and arguing with my granny about that matter. She said that women are not allowed to do it. She called me stubborn girl and always asking and arguing what elderly said (prohibited things). It happen when I was in forms three.
The second reason is because I’m not really practicing Malay lifestyle like it is must to eat rice everyday, eat with hands, sit “bersimpuh”, wearing sarong (kain batik), or others. I would like to bring a story about my friend name Lim. He is my friend who always about Islam and Malay. What are the differences? Why some Malay wearing tudung, some not? Why I always go for prayer? Why Malay does not eat pork and wine? Why some Malay does not perform their prayer? Why you believe The God that you can not see? He said, he have asked same questions for many his Malay friends but never got answers or else he will be scolded y them because asking such a sensitive issues. And he really glad because I answered all his questions and he satisfied with my answers. In fact, he said that how come I can seat with him during break time and eat together (of course he will not eat any non-halal foods because he respect me that I am Muslim not because I’m Malay). It is very rare if you can see that those typical Malay or I can say conservative Malay to eat together with non-Malays.in fact, I go to my additional Mathematics teacher Mr. Ngoi Yoon Koy and my chemistry teacher Mr. Lim Hun Poh during Chinese New Years. In facts, both my teachers really care about us (my friends and I). Why I’m saying so, both my teachers really respect us as Muslim and they really care about the foods and drinks. They not give us beer or any non-halal foods to us because they will show us that the foods they provides have “Halal” from JAKIM. I think they respect us because we are Muslim and not because we are Malay. If they respect us because we are Malay than they will need to provides Malays foods and not dates or sweets and some nuts.
I would like to say that, I’m more proud when people recognize me as Muslim rather than Malay because as Muslim I need to follow the comprehensive guidelines that have been revealed to His messenger. In facts, when I realize I’m Muslim, I need to work hard and do something for Muslim out there. I can not become too rigid like certain type of Malay attitudes. I can compromise to any races as long as they respect me as Muslims. In facts, I can easily help people, not because of their races but because of their religious because all Muslims are siblings no matter who he is, or what his colour or even his races. If I’m Malay first, than it is hard for me to go to other races because I will become racism and always think about my races significant rather than their belief or religious.
I’m choosing Islam first because as a Muslim I have been taught to do what Muslim should do. For example, keeps on promise, be punctual, cleanliness as part of Iman, respect others even though he is kufr (as long as they not do something harmful to our religion or us). Why I said so, it is because; Malays attitudes towards other races are differ than Islam thoughts. How Malays practice on punctuality or time is differ to Islam thoughts. If Malays really practicing the Islamic thoughts, than they will not come late or there will not exist such a word like “biasala, janji Melayu”.
In a nutshell, I’m going to say that, out there, there may some Malays who used to make Islam complicated because of their perception that “Islam belong to Malays”. But I would like to correct that beliefs and that perception. Islam is for all, and not only for certain races. Do not make religious become hard just because you think it is hard. For example, we can wear any clothes or dress as long as it is covered your aurah. If wearing cheongsam can cover your aurah, than let it is. Do not judge others just because what they are wearing.
P/s: I’m sorry if my statement is too harsh to somebody, I just want to share what is my opinion
POSITION PAPER 2
NOOR NADIRAH BT ZAINAL
0727636
“Of course religion is important but I am a Malay first before I become a Muslim”. Discuss.
When I look at this motion, what comes on my mind is that someone who really obsess with their so called “Malays” than the Islam that they believed as their religion. I strongly disagree with this topic because for me, no matter where you go, no matter what you did, you must be in the path of Islam. It is important to avoid any problems and to gat the pleasure of Allah.
My first point is, although in Malaysia we have different races which are Malay, Indian, Chinese and etc but we are still the same human beings that need water, food, clothe to survive. For me, the differences is that our religion. So, if someone tell me that races is important, they are selfish in terms of attitude. Let me put it like this, let say there is one accident that involve one old Chinese man. Nobody is wants to help him because of the races issues. If many people think that I’m Malay and you are Chinese and we don’t have to help each other. So, what will happen to that old Chinese man? Are you going to leave him just like that? Where is your responsibility and sense of humanity? Think about what will happen to you if you are at the same place as the old man. So, as a good Muslim, it is important that we help each other no matter what their races are. Looking back at this situation, don’t we think that if we follow Islam concept, we can be more unite and help each other when needed.
My second point is, I believe that there are no forces in marriage. But nowadays, many parents like to force their daughter to accept someone proposal because of the they afraid of making them embarrass if they rejected the proposal. The girl had to accept the marriage without their willingness. Islam encourage their follower to make a discussion before decide something. So, to avoid any problem like the girl will become depress and the marriage cannot stay longer, it is important that we need to discuss first.
So, it proved that when we follow the Islam concept, Insyaallah we can get the pleasure from Allah.
On the other hands, many people will think that, it is important to uphold Malay races because we have our dignity, right that need to be respected. So, in every condition we must be a leader. It is partly true. Of course, we have the dignity and right same as the other races too. But if we expect to have too much, it will make us in a lot of trouble such as fighting with other races because of everybody want to uphold their dignity and right too.
In addition, when we look into the Malay marriage, they usually used the henna. Henna becomes compulsory things in the ceremony. According to Islam, it is unacceptable to follow or imitate others religion culture. Henna relate to the Hinduism culture. So, why should we imitate the Hinduism culture because we are Muslim? Islam believes that when we are too obsessed with other religion’s culture and custom, it will make them loosing their faith whether indirectly or directly. So, it is better for us to follow Islam believe comprehensively.
As a conclusion, again I want stressed that, religion is important than a race. In Islam had said that don’t you ever try to be proud of you races, we are integrate in terms of one religion which is Islam, not based on races. In the sight of Allah, only taqwa can make us differ from each other.
0727636
“Of course religion is important but I am a Malay first before I become a Muslim”. Discuss.
When I look at this motion, what comes on my mind is that someone who really obsess with their so called “Malays” than the Islam that they believed as their religion. I strongly disagree with this topic because for me, no matter where you go, no matter what you did, you must be in the path of Islam. It is important to avoid any problems and to gat the pleasure of Allah.
My first point is, although in Malaysia we have different races which are Malay, Indian, Chinese and etc but we are still the same human beings that need water, food, clothe to survive. For me, the differences is that our religion. So, if someone tell me that races is important, they are selfish in terms of attitude. Let me put it like this, let say there is one accident that involve one old Chinese man. Nobody is wants to help him because of the races issues. If many people think that I’m Malay and you are Chinese and we don’t have to help each other. So, what will happen to that old Chinese man? Are you going to leave him just like that? Where is your responsibility and sense of humanity? Think about what will happen to you if you are at the same place as the old man. So, as a good Muslim, it is important that we help each other no matter what their races are. Looking back at this situation, don’t we think that if we follow Islam concept, we can be more unite and help each other when needed.
My second point is, I believe that there are no forces in marriage. But nowadays, many parents like to force their daughter to accept someone proposal because of the they afraid of making them embarrass if they rejected the proposal. The girl had to accept the marriage without their willingness. Islam encourage their follower to make a discussion before decide something. So, to avoid any problem like the girl will become depress and the marriage cannot stay longer, it is important that we need to discuss first.
So, it proved that when we follow the Islam concept, Insyaallah we can get the pleasure from Allah.
On the other hands, many people will think that, it is important to uphold Malay races because we have our dignity, right that need to be respected. So, in every condition we must be a leader. It is partly true. Of course, we have the dignity and right same as the other races too. But if we expect to have too much, it will make us in a lot of trouble such as fighting with other races because of everybody want to uphold their dignity and right too.
In addition, when we look into the Malay marriage, they usually used the henna. Henna becomes compulsory things in the ceremony. According to Islam, it is unacceptable to follow or imitate others religion culture. Henna relate to the Hinduism culture. So, why should we imitate the Hinduism culture because we are Muslim? Islam believes that when we are too obsessed with other religion’s culture and custom, it will make them loosing their faith whether indirectly or directly. So, it is better for us to follow Islam believe comprehensively.
As a conclusion, again I want stressed that, religion is important than a race. In Islam had said that don’t you ever try to be proud of you races, we are integrate in terms of one religion which is Islam, not based on races. In the sight of Allah, only taqwa can make us differ from each other.
POSITION PAPER 2
“Of course religion is important. But I am a Malay first before become a Muslim"
NOR FAZELA CHE HASIM (0724448)
Bismillahirahmanirahim…
Thanks to Allah s.w.t because give me a chance and opportunity to give my own opinion about this topic. Deep down in my heart, I’m really thankful and grateful because I was born as Muslim and also Malay. I love my religion same like I love my race. The statement above takes a lot of time to think. My friend said either the chicken egg come first or chicken? (ayam dulu or telur ayam dulu?). Sound funny right? Hehe… But after think for a while, actually we need to understand and explore our self through learning, experience, environment and so on.
Yes, of course religion is important. “But I am a Malay first before become a Muslim”. It is true; I am first Malay, then Muslim, because a religion can, at will, be rejected. One can’t deny oneself being Malay just as a Chinese can’t deny himself/herself being Chinese regardless of what religion he/she subscribes to. And this is the same with the other races. You could bleach your skin, colour your hair, speak ‘mat saleh’, but you are still Malay - "Melayu tetap Melayu". But in a flash, you could reject your religion. You could eat pork, consume alcohol, get baptized and deny the syahadah (affirmation) and zap! You are not Muslim. But ethnically, you are still 'Melayu' - neither you nor anyone else can take that away.
Anyway, that is my approach if we define “comes first” as in lifestyle practice. What if I ask you “Who would you help? Malays or Muslims?” In this case, I choose “Justice”. We have to help everyone that is in need. Not just our race or religion. If I were to choose between Malay and Islam, without any doubt I will choose Islam because it’s the only thing that could help me in Hereafter. Call me kolot or conservative, but if you were to choose between 80-year of life compared to eternity, the choice is obvious.
Maybe sbb terlampau ramai orang yg telah melakukan suatu2 perkara yg memburukkan nama Islam dan juga Melayu and it has been human’s nature to associate the bad things (and also the good things) with the general people(in this case, the race & the religion) due to lack of information and understanding of the culture itself. It’s true that we should see the mistakes as personal mistake, not as a culture/race identity. However, due to lack informational and educational (or just pure laziness to do research), it is easier to observe and conclude about a race/religion. That is what happens nowadays. Even people always say to use Malaysian students “jaga tingkah laku, anda duta kecil malaysia” because people will see what we are doing and they will conclude that all Malaysians are like us. If we’re good, they’ll think all Malaysians are good - if we’re not, and vice versa.
The question which arises here is, "How can all people be expected to believe in Allah given their varying- backgrounds, societies and cultures? For people to be responsible for worshipping Allah they all have to have access to knowledge of Allah. The final revelation teaches that all mankind have the recognition of Allah imprinted on their souls, a part of their very nature with which they are created. Islam is very clear in that it preaches universal brotherhood. The Quran laments against being unjust to anyone due to hatred. Yet Islam clearly recognizes diversity of races and cultures as a blessing, for mankind to get to know and mutually respect one another.
Fortunately for me, Malay and Islam have a long history together. Almost all things in Malay culture are compliant with syarak. So there is no need to choose except in small number of matters. For that matter, I’ll try my best to choose Islam.
POSITION PAPER 2
NOR HANANI BINTI AHMAD TAJUDIN (0727412)
Position Paper 2: “Of course religion is important. But, I am a Malay first before I become a Muslim”.
From the above statement, I can see that this person is giving his/her most priority on his/her race as Malay compare to his/her religion as a Muslim. From what he/she had said, he/she does admit that religion is important, but then he/she prefers to be known and consider himself/herself as Malay rather than a Muslim believer. He/she seems to be more enjoying her life as Malay rather than live a life that according and practicing the Islamic lifestyle. It is a little difficult for me to mention him or her. Since there is not only this person who felt this way, as I believe there is quite a lot of Malay people who encounter the same issue as this person, I will discuss this as ‘they’. These people are confusing between Malay and Islam. Whoever born as Malay is automatically is a Muslim. For them if you Malay it is not necessary you also a Muslim and their race come first than goes Islam so they will lead a life much more according to the Malay cultures and customs compare to follow what Islam taught or order its believer to do as stated in The Quran and The Sunnah. But for me, as in Malaysia, it is well known from the years of our greatest grandfather that Malay peoples are embracing Islam as their religion and the ultimate beliefs as they practicing the way of Islam and according to the Prophet Muhammad. They did all the good deeds, worshiping Allah as the ultimate creator and leave all the wrong and bad deeds behind. This religion or beliefs is inherited in Malay peoples from generations to generations. So, if you like it or not, if you were born as Malay, automatically you are a Muslim that you should live a life according to what Islam have taught us. Yes of course there is a phrase in the Quran, Surah Al-Baqarah, and the 256th sentence which the translation is “let there be no compulsion in religion..”. This means that in Islam there is no compulsion in accepting it and all those matters the sum total of which is called religion. In other words, there is no compulsion, or force in religion of Islam. We could not force anybody to follow or obey on a certain/particular religion. But, as I mention earlier, if you were born in Islam, there is compulsory or an obligation for you to worship Allah. As Ad-Din, Islam stands for complete submission and obedience to Allah. As a Muslim, we not act for the sake of any other man or sources but for the sake of Allah as our creator.
When such of this sensitive issue rose up, we will query and curious on why is this happened and to whom we should put the blame? For me, here comes the role of family institution and the role of the parents. Parents should nurture, teach, guide and rise up their children according to the religion of Islam. Children do not know anything that they are born as a white canvas, as fitrah. It is up to the parents to raise their children as a Muslim or Christian or Jewish or Nasrani. Parents should monitor and keep on eyes to their children from the moment them being brought into this world until they grown up. Do not let their children to seek the meaning of life by themselves. As we know, Malay people is easy to imitate others especially the Western’s lifestyles that are more freedom, entertainment, excitement and there are no boundaries that will tie us to some rules and regulations. It is very inviting and we are very excited to join the Westerners. Here, parents should control the sources of these excitements, the medium that connect us with those excitements. For instance, the media regardless electronics media or printed media, technology (internet), and so on. But undeniably, nowadays, there are also family who are making their own ways and do not close to each others, they are busy enough with their own businesses to have time to sit together even at the meal time. They do not have much time to discuss on any other things among them. What is even worse is that, the parents both father and mother have limited or no time to talk to their children. They are more interested in chasing and collecting the material things in such materialism world.
From all what I am saying, I not meant to put the total blame onto the parents’ shoulders. This is because there are cases that parents has already raised up their children well according to the syariah of Islam, but still the children behaving worse. This is all up to the individual’s faith (Iman). As we clearly know, iman could not be inherited from the pious father to his children. If the person has weak faith, it will easily make him or her to follow all the bad influences, commit crimes and sins and disobey to the Islam’s rules and regulations. But, if the person has already instilled the strong faith in him, then he will not allow any kind of negatives elements to ruin his life.
As for the conclusion, religion is a very important element in a human life. This is due to it will differentiate between human being with animals. Although you claim yourself is a Malay and has being a good Malay, lead a life according to the Malay’s cultures and customs, but you put Islamic taught and lifestyles at the second place, there is no use for you. This is because, you have to give your priority to Islam religion. Islam teaches us that Allah is the ultimate power and the creator of this world that we should obey, not to the other things. Above of all, it is up to the individual how to manage and govern their life as what they wish they want to. Last but not least, “tepuk dada tanyalah Iman”
Position Paper 2: “Of course religion is important. But, I am a Malay first before I become a Muslim”.
From the above statement, I can see that this person is giving his/her most priority on his/her race as Malay compare to his/her religion as a Muslim. From what he/she had said, he/she does admit that religion is important, but then he/she prefers to be known and consider himself/herself as Malay rather than a Muslim believer. He/she seems to be more enjoying her life as Malay rather than live a life that according and practicing the Islamic lifestyle. It is a little difficult for me to mention him or her. Since there is not only this person who felt this way, as I believe there is quite a lot of Malay people who encounter the same issue as this person, I will discuss this as ‘they’. These people are confusing between Malay and Islam. Whoever born as Malay is automatically is a Muslim. For them if you Malay it is not necessary you also a Muslim and their race come first than goes Islam so they will lead a life much more according to the Malay cultures and customs compare to follow what Islam taught or order its believer to do as stated in The Quran and The Sunnah. But for me, as in Malaysia, it is well known from the years of our greatest grandfather that Malay peoples are embracing Islam as their religion and the ultimate beliefs as they practicing the way of Islam and according to the Prophet Muhammad. They did all the good deeds, worshiping Allah as the ultimate creator and leave all the wrong and bad deeds behind. This religion or beliefs is inherited in Malay peoples from generations to generations. So, if you like it or not, if you were born as Malay, automatically you are a Muslim that you should live a life according to what Islam have taught us. Yes of course there is a phrase in the Quran, Surah Al-Baqarah, and the 256th sentence which the translation is “let there be no compulsion in religion..”. This means that in Islam there is no compulsion in accepting it and all those matters the sum total of which is called religion. In other words, there is no compulsion, or force in religion of Islam. We could not force anybody to follow or obey on a certain/particular religion. But, as I mention earlier, if you were born in Islam, there is compulsory or an obligation for you to worship Allah. As Ad-Din, Islam stands for complete submission and obedience to Allah. As a Muslim, we not act for the sake of any other man or sources but for the sake of Allah as our creator.
When such of this sensitive issue rose up, we will query and curious on why is this happened and to whom we should put the blame? For me, here comes the role of family institution and the role of the parents. Parents should nurture, teach, guide and rise up their children according to the religion of Islam. Children do not know anything that they are born as a white canvas, as fitrah. It is up to the parents to raise their children as a Muslim or Christian or Jewish or Nasrani. Parents should monitor and keep on eyes to their children from the moment them being brought into this world until they grown up. Do not let their children to seek the meaning of life by themselves. As we know, Malay people is easy to imitate others especially the Western’s lifestyles that are more freedom, entertainment, excitement and there are no boundaries that will tie us to some rules and regulations. It is very inviting and we are very excited to join the Westerners. Here, parents should control the sources of these excitements, the medium that connect us with those excitements. For instance, the media regardless electronics media or printed media, technology (internet), and so on. But undeniably, nowadays, there are also family who are making their own ways and do not close to each others, they are busy enough with their own businesses to have time to sit together even at the meal time. They do not have much time to discuss on any other things among them. What is even worse is that, the parents both father and mother have limited or no time to talk to their children. They are more interested in chasing and collecting the material things in such materialism world.
From all what I am saying, I not meant to put the total blame onto the parents’ shoulders. This is because there are cases that parents has already raised up their children well according to the syariah of Islam, but still the children behaving worse. This is all up to the individual’s faith (Iman). As we clearly know, iman could not be inherited from the pious father to his children. If the person has weak faith, it will easily make him or her to follow all the bad influences, commit crimes and sins and disobey to the Islam’s rules and regulations. But, if the person has already instilled the strong faith in him, then he will not allow any kind of negatives elements to ruin his life.
As for the conclusion, religion is a very important element in a human life. This is due to it will differentiate between human being with animals. Although you claim yourself is a Malay and has being a good Malay, lead a life according to the Malay’s cultures and customs, but you put Islamic taught and lifestyles at the second place, there is no use for you. This is because, you have to give your priority to Islam religion. Islam teaches us that Allah is the ultimate power and the creator of this world that we should obey, not to the other things. Above of all, it is up to the individual how to manage and govern their life as what they wish they want to. Last but not least, “tepuk dada tanyalah Iman”
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
TOPIC: Of course religion is important. But I am a Malay first before I become a Muslim.
Ili Kaiyisah binti Muhammad Kamal (0720266)
In Malaysia, the Malay population is defined by Article 160 of the Malaysian Constitution as someone born to a Malaysian citizen who professes to be a Muslim, habitually speaks the Malay language, adheres to Malay customs, and is domiciled in Malaysia. As a result, Malay citizens who convert out of Islam are no longer considered Malay under the law. Religion and culture are influencing each other because when an individual born to be Malay they are Muslim. Thus, religion the key point to make sure that someone in Malaysia is Malay or not. However, in my opinion all human being is a Muslim before they become what they are right now. Malay is just a concept which the society tend to different these people and I totally disagree with the topic above.
Moreover, the culture, norm and custom make them felt different than with each other. Malay society tends to get more influences to the custom itself rather to evaluate or to analysis from the l-Quran and As-Sunnah. For example, the custom which gives other perception about life and ignoring the Islamic view such as ‘Bomoh’, spiritual heals by using something that illogical or ‘syirik’. This concept however the trusted thing that most of the Malay tend to be influence and believe with it rather than seeking help from ‘Ulama’ or ‘Mufti’. As a Muslim we should not rely on something that is totally discourage or prohibited by Allah S.W.T because All the wrong and right already stated in the Quran.
Furthermore, adapting the culture is call ‘nature bound’ which influences the individual life same as Malay. Being born as Malay is continuing the legacy of the custom and norm not the legacy of the Islam itself. The reality is custom is much more important rather than the religion itself. For example, wedding ceremony when the ‘Mak Andam’ will make up the bride started 7pm until 8pm without anxious about Maghrib and isyak prayers. The bride also thinks it ok to skip prayers because of ‘darurat’.
In the nutshell, Prophet Muhammad S.A.W reported that Allah S.W.T said “I created my servants in the right religion but devil s made them go astray”. The prophet also said, “Each child is born in state of “Fitrah”, then his parent make them Jew, Christian or Zoroastrian. Thus, the fact is we are Muslim then we become Malay.
POSITION PAPER 2 BY SITI FARHANA BINTI ELIAS (O719618)
“ Of course religion is important. But I am a Malay first before I become a Muslim”. From the statement, I feel difficult to give the appropriate ideas. It is hard to think but I really hope that what I am going to write can make a sense. I was a firstly born as a Malay…of course. As I was a baby who knew nothing about Islam. So, I was only a Malay. I realize that I came from Malay culture’s life. Perhaps, when I was a kid, I noticed that I am a Malay, my parents and my family also Malay, communicate using Malay language, getting close with Malay’s friends and I only knew about Malay all about.
As I grow older, I learn to know Islam well than before and I find out that Islam is the best way of life. I realize that Islam is important and vital in our life. I started to obey to my religion and also I try my very best to devote the Creator of all creature to the fullest.
In my opinion, whenever we talk about Malay, we try to equate it with Islam or Muslim. Most of us have the feeling that Malay is Muslim/ Islam. But here I could say that Malay itself actually is just inherit Malay race from our parents. Malay is just one of the races and being Muslim means we behave according to Islamic ode of conduct. Religion is very important whereby we receive knowledge in order to enhance the capability to perform obligation as a Khalifah of Allah. So, here I could say that Islam is something that we must find it by ourselves. Then, as a Muslim we behave and practice Islam according to the fundamental of Islam which is al-Quran and Sunnah. Through this way, it will give a solid foundation in our Aqidah and the religious understanding. Here we can see the importance of religion and being a good Muslim.
From that statement above also, it cannot be denied I am a Malay first before I become a Muslim. But I stress here that religion is very important whereby it is begin when I know Allah (tawhid), I practice the ways to perform syariah Islam (fiqah), I learn the tracsaction of society (muamalat), and I behave good moral values (akhlak). Then I become good Muslim when I enhance myself myself with understanding the others knowledge for the sake of duniawi and ukhrawi. InsyaAllah….
To sum up, I could say that religion or being Muslim is when we receive the knowledge from Allah’s willingness then we behave and practice the knowledge that we acquired. This is what we called the true Muslim. Actually, it is such difficult things to say because Islam and being Muslim is such a general things that might not be explained with words. However, it is something come from our heart and the most important thing is taufik and hidayah given by Allah to whosoever he want to give to. So, whenever Allah swt willing to give hidayah, then he or she will get it. Through the heavenly (Islam) came from Allah swt, as a Muslim, I am pleased with Allah as my Lord, and with Islam as my Religion, and with Rasulullah saw as a Messenger of Allah. Lastly, I am glad to say that without religion our life is meaningless.
As I grow older, I learn to know Islam well than before and I find out that Islam is the best way of life. I realize that Islam is important and vital in our life. I started to obey to my religion and also I try my very best to devote the Creator of all creature to the fullest.
In my opinion, whenever we talk about Malay, we try to equate it with Islam or Muslim. Most of us have the feeling that Malay is Muslim/ Islam. But here I could say that Malay itself actually is just inherit Malay race from our parents. Malay is just one of the races and being Muslim means we behave according to Islamic ode of conduct. Religion is very important whereby we receive knowledge in order to enhance the capability to perform obligation as a Khalifah of Allah. So, here I could say that Islam is something that we must find it by ourselves. Then, as a Muslim we behave and practice Islam according to the fundamental of Islam which is al-Quran and Sunnah. Through this way, it will give a solid foundation in our Aqidah and the religious understanding. Here we can see the importance of religion and being a good Muslim.
From that statement above also, it cannot be denied I am a Malay first before I become a Muslim. But I stress here that religion is very important whereby it is begin when I know Allah (tawhid), I practice the ways to perform syariah Islam (fiqah), I learn the tracsaction of society (muamalat), and I behave good moral values (akhlak). Then I become good Muslim when I enhance myself myself with understanding the others knowledge for the sake of duniawi and ukhrawi. InsyaAllah….
To sum up, I could say that religion or being Muslim is when we receive the knowledge from Allah’s willingness then we behave and practice the knowledge that we acquired. This is what we called the true Muslim. Actually, it is such difficult things to say because Islam and being Muslim is such a general things that might not be explained with words. However, it is something come from our heart and the most important thing is taufik and hidayah given by Allah to whosoever he want to give to. So, whenever Allah swt willing to give hidayah, then he or she will get it. Through the heavenly (Islam) came from Allah swt, as a Muslim, I am pleased with Allah as my Lord, and with Islam as my Religion, and with Rasulullah saw as a Messenger of Allah. Lastly, I am glad to say that without religion our life is meaningless.
POSITION PAPER 2
LEONITA ARBAIMAN (0724142)
Religion is important but I am Malay first before I become Muslim. I agree with this statement because our born is named as Malay first since we live in Malay culture and the majority environment also are Malay. Malays are an ethnic group of Austronesian peoples predominantly inhabiting the Malay Peninsula and parts of Sumatra and Borneo. The Malay ethnic group is distinct from the concept of a Malay race, which encompasses a wider group of people, including most of Indonesia and the Philippines. The Malay language is a member of the Austronesian family of languages.
There are many kinds of things that can describe what Malay is and what does it look like. But, there is nothing can be learned to be a Malay. We cannot train ourselves to be Malay if we’re not Malay, and there also nothing can be changed for not being Malay as well if we’re already born as Malay. Malay is a race that inherited from our generations. It comes inside us unconsciously, without we learn how to become and be called as Malay. Once we’re Malay, we’ll be Malay forever although we try to change our skin colour, our language, our living style and our belief as Malay as well. It is internal factor that doesn’t show at our surface of life. I am Malay first before I become Muslim might be true because, for being a Muslim we have to learn many compulsory things since we born such as learn to recite the Qur’an, prayer, fasting and all the Fardhu Ain and Fardhu Kifayah. It didn’t mean that if you’re not learning all this sort of thing that makes you’re not Muslim, but all those obligation thing must be learn and must be shows by action if you are truly Muslim that apply Muslim as well. In Malaysia it had been stated that all Malay must be Muslim, but for the whole wide world, not all Muslim must be Malay. It means that in Malaysia, Malay and Muslim cannot be split, it should be together.
For my first point of view, I think to become a Malay, there is no rules and regulations, the same also goes to become a Muslim but nowadays people mostly differentiate between Malay and Muslim because of the unfaith belief about becoming a Muslim. There are so many opponent ideas that actually against the belief that already had been stated in the Holy Qur’an. People seems to more likely to engage with the Malay culture compared to applying and practicing the Muslim rules and regulations of life. This discrepancy of mind set will destroy our nations as a Muslim ummah since we bound to much on something that been created by human rather than being engage with something that had been created by our creator which is Allah SWT.
My second points is in terms of being Malay first before we become Muslim can be seen in the context of living. We born from infant will be nurtured using Malay culture such as learned self-manner which is will be taught indirectly from parents. But, in Muslim ways of behaving and shaping a good characteristic, it can be learned, instilled and must be developed according to the sunnah and it can be refer to the Holy Qur’an that had been mentions and provide the way of life in a very wide concept of human living. If we said that to become a Malay you must have well self-manner and be polite to the elderly but we should realize that other ethnics also emphasize on the same good things that should be encourage in our Malay culture. Unfortunately, why shall we focus on being and claim ourselves as Malay first if we know that it is temporary life living. Our intentions of life must be given to become a truly Muslim whereby it is the only religion that will be accepted by Allah SWT. Hence, if we claim ourselves as Malay, it totally true because we born as Malay but at the same time we should identify ourselves also as internally Muslim since we’re in our mom’s womb already. Our mum and the previous generations also are the creations of Allah. May be we amiss that our life only started when we’re born, but the truth is our soul is already alive for the last 9 months before we deliver into this world.
We should be conscious that being a Muslim need progress and development. We seek for the Muslim reveal knowledge. We seek for ALLAH SWT’s willing. We seek for His reward in the here-after life. Even though, for my early points I have mentions that we are Malay first before Muslim. But, the actual fact in this life is actually we are already Muslim since we’ve been created by ALLAH SWT. Therefore, identifying yourself as Malay first is just by the name of being Malay and there nothing can be done by being a Malay. Meanwhile, deep inside our soul, we are Muslim at all. Only the environment of living makes us Malay, only the region of living makes us become Malay. Can you imagine if suddenly you’re born in other country, would you be other than your ethnic now? The answer will be yes right. That is why we should train and set in our mind that we are Muslim regardless of which country I live and which culture I’ve implement in our lives.
To conclude, I would like to stress my points here where we should think before confess either we are Malay first before become Muslim or we all are Muslim regardless of nothing in this world. If we remain in a conservative thought of varying between being Malay and Muslim, it will diminish our belief because the solely fact of what and who are us is we are Muslims, which is the creations of ALLAH SWT.
POSITION PAPER 2
When Dr Siraje ask to discuss about this question, first in my mind is what a kind of question is this. Such a hard to discuss but I try to do it of course. Otherwise, I will do not get mark for this paper. hehehe.. This is my opinion.
There is a different between being Malay and being a Muslim. However, we are as Malaysian typically thinks that Muslim must be Malay. Unfortunately, some people or can I say here most of Malay just state as a Muslim but not be a true Muslim. This is because of Malay is so hold on custom. Some of custom in Malay culture are out of the right path. Meaning that, they more tend to custom rather then religion even though they said that religion is important. Sometimes we do not realize that what we say is not parallel with what we do or believe. At this moment, many Malay do not practicing what should do in religion in a way to be a Muslim. They do learn how to be a good Muslim but they do not try to implement it in the real. It so pathetic. For them, when they do solat, cover their aurah, it enough to be called as Muslim. Yes it true but how about the attitude and manners? Is it shows it as a Muslim? Nowadays, so many cases about immoral and unfortunately, Malay are monopoly the ranking. As a Malay Muslim, we should ashamed when other races question at us, is this your religion taught? For me, no matter what races you are, as a Muslim do not ever put religion in second or third position other then others. Religion must be number one no matter how. Insyaallah, Allah will bless us. In conclusion, be a Muslim first and at the same time be Malay.
POSITION PAPER (2).
CROSS-CULTURAL COUNSELING (EDG 4008)
SUZIELAWATI BT OMAR @ ABDUL AZIZ (0816548)
“Of course religion is important. But I am a Malay first, before I become a Muslim”.
Discuss……
Religion can be defined as a belief or one of the systems of faith that are based on the belief in the existence of a particular god. Then, I assume that every human being has their own religion and belief in this world, which there is are law that stated that everyone has their right to practice their own religion. Since, in Malaysia, there is a vary religion in terms of Buddhism, Christian, Sikhism, Hinduism, and Islam as a major religion. Then, there is no constraining in Islam, as well as every people have their own right to practice their religion and belief.
Regarding to the topic above, I’m strongly disagree that I’m Malay first, before I become a Muslim. This is because our Prophet Muhammad pbuh said that:
كل مولود يولو على الفطرة, فأبواه يهودانه أو يمجسانه أو يونصرانه.......
Which means ‘Every people was born under the “Fitrah” (purity), so their parents are the most responsible in order to mould them either to be Yahudi, Majusi or Nasrani”. It is clearly told that we were born as a Muslim first, then our parents shape and educate us either to be a Malay, Chinese, and Indian and so on. On the other hand, some people might be assume that they proud to be a Malay, because Malay is a very polite and kindness person or society in Malaysia, especially. But for me, races are not very important as well as religion. As for me, other races like Chinese, Indian, or whatsoever, they also might become a Muslim as well. Then, others might be assume that religion are not so important, but for me, religion as my fundamental on this world and because of that i'm so proud to claim that i'm a Muslim first, rather than Malay.
Furthermore, in the Qur’an also described in surah Ar-Rum: 30, which means “So set thy purpose (O Muhammad) for religion as a man by nature upright-the nature (framed) of Allah, in which He hath created man. There is no altering (the laws of) Allah’s creation. That is the right religion, but most men know not”. As a matter of course, there is no doubt that man was born with religion, which is Islam. So, once we became a Muslim, we need to put the best effort in order to become a good Muslim, as well a good slave for Allah. This is because we have a great purpose in this world, which is as a preparation for the journey in the next world (Hereafter).
To sum up, there is nothing can’t be denied that all people was born under the fitrah, which means born under the Islam. This is because it is clearly stated in both Al-Quran and Hadith that all people on the entire of the world were born under the fitrah. But then, their parents mould them either to become a Muslim or vice versa. So, in my humble opinion as a Muslim, we should have a great thankful to our God because we already stand in a right path as become a Muslim since we were born because there is a lot of people outside there, which never have ‘Hidayah’ from God to become a Muslim. As we already know that in surah Al-Imran: 3, which means that the only religion was accepted by Allah is Islam. Lastly, my final impression regarding to the topic is I’m strongly disagree that I’m a Malay first because I was born under the fitrah, so I’m a Muslim first, then my parents educate and mould me to become a Malay.
CROSS-CULTURAL COUNSELING (EDG 4008)
SUZIELAWATI BT OMAR @ ABDUL AZIZ (0816548)
“Of course religion is important. But I am a Malay first, before I become a Muslim”.
Discuss……
Religion can be defined as a belief or one of the systems of faith that are based on the belief in the existence of a particular god. Then, I assume that every human being has their own religion and belief in this world, which there is are law that stated that everyone has their right to practice their own religion. Since, in Malaysia, there is a vary religion in terms of Buddhism, Christian, Sikhism, Hinduism, and Islam as a major religion. Then, there is no constraining in Islam, as well as every people have their own right to practice their religion and belief.
Regarding to the topic above, I’m strongly disagree that I’m Malay first, before I become a Muslim. This is because our Prophet Muhammad pbuh said that:
كل مولود يولو على الفطرة, فأبواه يهودانه أو يمجسانه أو يونصرانه.......
Which means ‘Every people was born under the “Fitrah” (purity), so their parents are the most responsible in order to mould them either to be Yahudi, Majusi or Nasrani”. It is clearly told that we were born as a Muslim first, then our parents shape and educate us either to be a Malay, Chinese, and Indian and so on. On the other hand, some people might be assume that they proud to be a Malay, because Malay is a very polite and kindness person or society in Malaysia, especially. But for me, races are not very important as well as religion. As for me, other races like Chinese, Indian, or whatsoever, they also might become a Muslim as well. Then, others might be assume that religion are not so important, but for me, religion as my fundamental on this world and because of that i'm so proud to claim that i'm a Muslim first, rather than Malay.
Furthermore, in the Qur’an also described in surah Ar-Rum: 30, which means “So set thy purpose (O Muhammad) for religion as a man by nature upright-the nature (framed) of Allah, in which He hath created man. There is no altering (the laws of) Allah’s creation. That is the right religion, but most men know not”. As a matter of course, there is no doubt that man was born with religion, which is Islam. So, once we became a Muslim, we need to put the best effort in order to become a good Muslim, as well a good slave for Allah. This is because we have a great purpose in this world, which is as a preparation for the journey in the next world (Hereafter).
To sum up, there is nothing can’t be denied that all people was born under the fitrah, which means born under the Islam. This is because it is clearly stated in both Al-Quran and Hadith that all people on the entire of the world were born under the fitrah. But then, their parents mould them either to become a Muslim or vice versa. So, in my humble opinion as a Muslim, we should have a great thankful to our God because we already stand in a right path as become a Muslim since we were born because there is a lot of people outside there, which never have ‘Hidayah’ from God to become a Muslim. As we already know that in surah Al-Imran: 3, which means that the only religion was accepted by Allah is Islam. Lastly, my final impression regarding to the topic is I’m strongly disagree that I’m a Malay first because I was born under the fitrah, so I’m a Muslim first, then my parents educate and mould me to become a Malay.
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