‘Islam never forces non-Muslims to become Muslims’

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Dr Annuar (front, third left), with Siaw on his right, leads the Maulidur Rasul procession across Sibu town.

SIBU: There is no such thing as forced conversion to Islam, says Assistant Minister of Education and Technological Research Dr Annuar Rapaee.

Moreover, the Nangka assemblyman points out that the Muslim community is a ‘friendly brotherhood that prioritises harmony and most importantly, universal peace’.

“There have been accusations that we are forcing others to convert to Islam, but these are merely slanders.

“Muslims have never forced (those from) other communities to embrace the religion (Islam),” he said in officiating at the opening of this year’s division-level Maulidur Rasul celebration at Sibu Islamic Complex yesterday.

Dr Annuar also called upon fellow local Muslims to continue upholding unity among themselves for their own well-being and benefits.

“We may have different opinions and views, but when it comes to religious matters, we must not be in disunity.

“We must be the example not only to other communities in Sibu and Sarawak, but also to those in Peninsular Malaysia,” he said.

About 6,000 participants of 69 contingents took part in the Maulidur Rasul procession, held in commemoration of the birthday of Prophet Muhammad P.B.U.H.

Dr Annuar led the procession, which covered the 4km route that started and ended at Sibu Islamic Complex.

Sibu Resident Charles Siaw was also present.