Congregation Of Famed Islamic Scholars Drew Admiration Criticisms From Netizens

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WHEN the word religion is mentioned, we expect it to invoke feelings of peace, spiritual contentment and many other virtues associated with well being. 
Strangely, however, in Malaysia the term has strong association with division as can be seen in a benign video showing the congregation of various famed Islamic scholars.

A sharp-eyed netizen claimed that those seated at the table were Hussein Yee, Dr Maza, Sheikh Assim, Dr Omar Suleiman, Yusuf Estes and Dr Zakir Naik.

The topic quickly turned ugly when a number of netizens called them Wahhabis, a movement which has been criticised for causing divisions among the Muslim community.

But there was still a fair share of supporters who pointed out the wholesomeness of the gathering.
“It is satisfying to watch. They are eating healthy meals,” said one netizen, while another pointed out the coconut juice they were drinking, saying that it was natural sweetness as compared to the artificial sweetness inherent in many meals nowadays.
“These are the great religious people. Their knowledge is far better than ours. They champion their religion in their own countries. Hopefully we can learn from their knowledge,” said Aku Rakyat.
“All my favourite Syeikh in one table,” said Hikmet.
Several people were also seen hitting back at those who labelled the scholars as Wahabbis, citing their lack of knowledge.
Where a topic on religion is being discussed, it is never complete without mentioning PAS.
Netizen Sobri Sandom inquired if PAS president Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang was playing truant since he was not seen at the table.

Another netizen added that the convention is not complete until Hadi Awang is there. Koolman said, “No Hadi Awang, No scholar.”
With regards to the location of the video, Capt. Kemuncup may have a hint. He claimed that they were living in a hotel beside the Langkawi airport. “I have just met them,” he said.

On a separate note, Dr Zakir Naik is known for his inflammatory speeches that incited people.
To recap, he runs a channel called PeaceTV, which is banned in India, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka due to its controversial content. Canada and the UK have since denied entry to him. He has been living in Malaysia since fleeing India.
A news portal claimed that on Aug 20, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim during his India visit said if sufficient evidence is presented in the case against Zakir Naik, Malaysia would not condone terrorism. — Focus Malaysia

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