29 January

The Straits Times

In an article contribution, Associate Professor Syed Farid Alatas, Department of Sociology and Department of Malay Studies, discussed the conflict between majority Sunnis and minority Shi’ites in the Arab Gulf States. He also discussed the Amman Message by King Abdullah Al-Hussein of Jordan that was issued more than 10 years ago which in essence, called for tolerance and unity among Muslims of the world.

Assoc Prof Syed Farid  opined that the Amman Message, which is an expression of the spirit of religious pluralism that defines the understanding and practice of Islam, is now in danger of erosion due to narrow-mindedness of the religious establishments and the willingness of politicians to sacrifice religion for material interests. Its message and appeal for tolerance is now more vital than ever.

To read the full article, click here.