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Brunei Sultan Warns Against Conversion From Islam
by Kazi Mahmood for IslamOnline
KUALA LUMPUR, March 6 (IslamOnline & News Agencies) - The King of Brunei Darussalam on Monday cautioned his Muslim subjects against what is seen as an attempt by certain undesirable elements to covertly convert Muslims in the country to some other religion.
The ruler said that he would be pleased to remind all Muslim followers to remain strong in maintaining their Islamic faith.
"They must never allow themselves to be influenced by undesirable elements that try to lead them astray. We pray to Allah the Almighty to safeguard us while at the same time give us the strength to remain focused and attentive in observing our religious duties and show our loyalty to Him," urged his Majesty in his Eid al-Adha address to the country.
He said one of the things that could help Muslims stay on this course was by not forgetting the importance of seeking guidance and knowledge from scholars and religious teachers.
"If this becomes a culture among us Muslim followers, Insha Allah, we would be safe from any elements that try to lead us astray," he said.
The monarch's message marked his concern following reports that a certain foreign-based religious missionary group, with the support of some local residents, has tried to lure Muslims out of their faith.
Local residents have complained several times to religious authorities in the Sultanate, situated on the tip of Borneo Island, and bordered by Malaysia.
The Sultan also stressed the importance of understanding and unity, which he described as two important elements in Islam and, hence, should not be neglected.
"Sadly, the world lacks these two attributes. It is due to this fact that there is chaos in this world and there is no end to it," he lamented.
Oil rich Brunei has limited entertainment, does not allow the sale of alcohol and imposes heavy fines and punishment on any diversion from Islam by the people. It has a population of less than 600,000.
The king said the world was a witness to the chaos that has left victims to suffer all degrees of pains and agonies. He said Brunei citizens must to be careful in order not to be drawn into conflicts.
"In order to avoid a conflict one should not neglect the religion [Islam] or go against the laws and regulations of the nation. Linguistically, chaos could also mean slander. One form of slander [campaign] that we fear most is the one that is targeted at Muslims and the Islam," said the ruler.
He noted that Muslims are known for their strong faith and that they could not be easily swayed from turning their back on Islam. "It is in view of this," said the ruler, "that the whole Muslim community was in shock when it learned a Muslim was said to have converted to another religion.
"Such reaction is understandable as such matter [is apostasy, and] is seen as serious and out of the ordinary, especially in the eyes of the Sharia'h and laymen laws," said the ruler.
"We must not view the matter lightly as this involves a matter of faith, one that determines his fate in this world and in the hereafter," he added.
The sultan noted that if a person converts to Islam, he will seen as blessed, but on the other hand, if a Muslim chose to give up his or her faith, it will only mark the beginning of their ruin.
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