An Open Letter

Just like all of you, I regularly receive many emails most of which I enjoy reading. I think I am fairly open-minded about the contents; I even laugh at racist jokes because I know they are usually in good humour and meant no harm. However, I do object to materials that seek to target specific groups at their expense. Fortunately they don’t come very often.

Last week I received one with an attachment that is supposed to be signed by Malaysian Catholic Bishops and the Kuala Lumpur Archbishop warning Christians about the dangers of converting to Islam. I am aware that there were related issues recently in Malaysia but I question the authenticity of the letter because I doubt the Catholic Church would deal with the matter that way. In fact I have sent a copy of the letter to one of the signatories in order to ascertain its authenticity but have yet to receive a reply.

Regardless of the authenticity of the letter, the contents had no relevance to Singapore because we have a different legal system and the issues do not arise. The question is then, why circulate it to Singaporeans?

There are zealots in many countries and I dare say in nearly all religions. There is enough publicity in the media to let all of us know what injustices there are elsewhere. But it is also unjust to overreact against groups locally when the issues are absent. I hope right-thinking people, who should include all Old Rafflesians, will restrain from bringing those issues home.

I hope this letter does not disqualify from receiving your emails because most of the time I do enjoy them. You are welcome to continue to send me any material but I will continue to object to the objectionables!

Happy New Year!

Kan Kin Mun