THE step taken by several cities in the French Riviera to ban burkinis will be seen by many as not only discrimination against women but also exposing intolerance towards other cultures and religions. The step was taken by the cities following the order by the Cannes mayor to ban burkinis on beaches, citing “public order concerns”. Those caught breaking the law would be fined €38 (RM170). However, they will first be asked to change into another swimming costume or leave the beach. The burkini is not new as it has been used by Muslim women in several countries, including Malaysia. Its design is intended to accord with Islamic dressing traditions and to cover aurat.to accord with Islamic dressing traditions and to cover aurat. The suit covers the whole body, except the face, hands and feet, yet is light enough to let them swim. It is feared that the ban will send a wrong message to Muslims not only in France but also the world. We understand the tragedies faced by the country. The latest occurred on July 14 where one terrorist used a truck to run over people in Nice on Bastille Day, killing 84 people. On July 26, two people attacked a church during mass, killing an 86-year-old priest. The Islamic State claimed responsibility for both attacks. However, it is important that people realise these attacks have nothing to do with Islam, which is a religion of peace and tolerance. Banning the burkini will not resolve problems in the country. It would only fuel Muslims’ anger against the authorities. The ban will not help the fight against terrorism. People must remember that wearing the burkini has nothing to do with terrorism. It is simply an act by Muslims to show their love for God. The ban goes against the principles of virtues and morality upheld by the country for many years. It also goes against the principles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights 1948, which protect the rights of human beings without discrimination. France cannot be seen to be champion of the rights of other races and religions while limiting the rights of certain groups. They must treat all people fairly and justly.DR MUZAFFAR SYAH MALLOW Senior lecturer, Faculty of Syariah and Law, Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia
NEW STREET TIMES
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
Belum ada tanggapan untuk " Ban will send wrong messag 254/ban-will-send-wrong-message"
Post a Comment