Malaysia #5 - Islam

 

Islam is the state religion in Malaysia. However, at least in the state of Sarawak, where we are staying - the majority religion is Christianity. An interesting thing. At present, Muslims are celebrating Ramadhan in Sarawak which means that there are brilliant collections of street vendors set up to sell their foods each evening from about 6:30 to 8:30. So what I understand is that Muslims fast during the day in Ramadhan but then break the fast each evening. I've also been told that women are allowed to go to the mosque to pray as well during this time.

As it turns out, proseletyzing for any religion but Islam is frowned upon at best; illegal at worst. I'm not completely clear on the laws but I udnerstand from some sources taht in Sarawak, it is not illegal to do evangelism or for muslims to convert - but it is a dangerous proposition for both parties (complete with potential prison sentences). Any Muslim intending to convert to Christianity has to (at the very least) keep his/her process secret from the government and potentially even from his/her family.

As a consequence of these laws, many christian groups have the practice in place of printing "for non-muslims only" (i.e. for athiests, hindus, buddhists, etc...) on the front of programs, signs, banners, and marketing material. This is just to avoid any undue attention from the governemnt and to be strictly according to the book. Of course, underneath, many churches are populated by converted muslims. The population in this state wouldnt be nearly 60% Christian if someone hasn't converted somewhere along the way methinks.

From 2010 - Malaysia Mission Trip

This reality makes one doing the types things we are doiing (preaching, inviting, sharing Jesus) think about how much we really believe what we are talking about. Although we have been told the risk is minimal, it is still far greater than what we are used to in America. There are no criminal consequences to sharing one's faith where I am from - and therefore its not something I have thought about. The question remains though: would I be willing to go to jail over sharing what I am going to share tonight? Definietly pushes us to be authentic, full of integrity, and convicted in what we share. Its too big of risk otherwise.