Relationship with the non-Muslim

The concept of 'Al-Wala wa Al-Bara' (to love and hate for the sake of Allah SWT) is the creed that guides all the actions and sayings of a Muslim. The Prophet (pbuh) said:

"The strongest bond of Iman is the love for Allah's sake and the hatred for Allah's sake." (Reported by Imam Ahmad)

However, Malaysia has a unique multi-religious society where about 60% of its population are Muslims, 20% Buddhist, 9% Hindus and 5% of other religions including Sikh, Christianity and pagans.

The majority of dwellers are Malays, and 99% of them are Muslims, followed by the Chinese, Indians, Orang Asli, Sabah and Sarawak.

Looking at this diversity, undoubtedly Malaysia is one of the most multi-religious and multicultural society in South East Asia region.

In the world where a religious community is increasing, there is a need to address the challenges in the modern era on how to live together within a religious community.

The Quran says:
"O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes, so that you may (affectionately) know one another..." (QS 49:13)

The Quran says:
Allah does not forbid you to deal justly and kindly with those who fought not against you on account of your religion and did not drive you out of your homes. Verily, Allah loves those who deal with equality. (QS 60:08)

The Quran says:
"And do not insult those they invoke other than Allah, lest they insult Allah in enmity without knowledge..." (QS 6:108)

Islam promotes altruistic and cooperative behaviors in a multicultural society to promote social cohesion among humans. This is why Islam is very much against racial discrimination (sifat asabiyyah) in the form of tribalism.

Relationships between human are very crucial in the formation of cohabiting and harmonious society especially with the existence of multiple cultures, religions, and civilizations.

Improper construction of such relationships between inhabitants with different grounds of religion and civilization leads to chaotic and unstable societies.

This indicates that besides the concept of al-wara wa al-bara, justice and kindness is another platform that Islam established for relationships between Muslims and non-Muslims.

The history of Islam demonstrates that this religion is open to diversity, interfaith relations and multiculturalism and teaches its followers to live together with other people with respect and without discrimination against any race, religion or person.


Wallahu'alam