Allowed to Convert?

By: American Decency Staff

When we think of oppressive Islamic countries with terrible records of religious freedom for their citizens, usually what come to mind are Arabic nations, like Iran or Saudi Arabia.

A recent headline from Christianity Today made me stop and imagine what Christians under true persecution really go through.

Malaysia Rules Muslim Man Can Convert to Christianity

Malaysia may not be the first nation that comes to mind when we think of oppressive Islamic regimes, but it certainly fits the description.

According to AsianCorrespondant.com,

"APOSTASY of Malays to Christianity is a controversial issue in Malaysia. It tugs at the very essence of Malay identity, as a Malay in Article 160 of the Federal Constitution is defined as someone who practices Islam, speaks Bahasa Melayu, and follows the Malay culture.

…Conversion to any other religion would be socially very difficult, as it would be seen as being a traitor to one’s own race…"

The article goes on to explain that,

Apostasy is also criminalized within Malaysia, with the death penalty actually standing on the statute books in states of Kelantan and Terengganu (yet to be constitutionally approved). The only state where one can legally apply to leave Islam is in Negeri Sembilan.

However, converting away from Islam through the Sharia Court system is almost impossible…

Many apostolates are arrested for apostasy and interned in one of the religious rehabilitation centres for up to 36 months…"

So, as you can see, there's a reason why this Malaysian man being allowed to convert is considered news.

Personally, I have a hard time even wrapping my mind around the idea of the court having to allow a citizen to change their religion.

How blessed have we been, in the United States, that this is such a foreign concept!

The man in the story, Rooney Rebit, was born into a Christian family which converted to Islam when he was 8 years old. But when Rooney was 24, he converted to Christianity and, 33 years later, he will now be officially recognized as one.

This is considered a landmark case for a nation that has had several high-profile, controversial cases which have not allowed conversion.

Here, in the United States, we are fighting to be allowed to stand by the convictions of the unpopular aspects of our faith. Around the world, others fight to even be allowed to claim the same faith.

In addition to joining us in action, we at American Decency couldn’t take stand without your prayers and support.  One friend of this ministry understands that and just offered a match challenge to help us raise the funds needed for this fight. 

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