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Berita

September–October 2010
PP5872/11/2010 (025928)

NECF
A bi-monthly
publication of the
National Evangelical
Christian Fellowship
Malaysia

Partner
Editorial

Power
H istory is the story of God assemble a dozen followers (who Of late, there have been many
giving away power for were no less flawed), to whom He issues of public life and concerns
the good of mankind. handed the keys of the kingdom of that require our attention and action.
After entrusting the human species God. We are “God’s fellow workers” Such issues cannot be handled
with the gift of free choice, God to collaborate with His actions in by one single organisation or by
invited His representatives to act as the world. As God’s co-workers, we churches alone. They need the input
partners, even to argue and wrestle need one another to do His work and counsel of the entire Christian
with the One who created them. effectively. Indeed, there is truth community.
Yet, virtually everyone God in the saying “There is strength in For example, the implications
picked to lead a new venture – numbers.” arising from the ‘Allah’ issue affect
Adam, Abraham, Moses, David – Likewise, NECF Malaysia as a all facets of church life and require
proved disappointing in part. But national body does not work alone. wise counsel and wisdom for the
it seems that God has committed It desires to serve the Christian appropriate response.
to work with human partners no community and the nation through Then, there is the issue of school
matter how inept they are. the local churches. This is a lofty principals closing down non-Muslim
In the New Testament, Jesus task which requires the partnership
stayed on earth long enough to of local churches. Continued on pg 3...

Help for Pakistan Flood Victims

N
ECF Malaysia Secretary-General Sam Ang (right)
handing over a cheque for US$10,000 to Crisis Relief
Services and Training (Crest) Executive Director Lana
Wong for Pakistan flood victims. CREST will use the money,
which comes from the
NECF Emergency Relief Inside this Issue
Fund, to buy food and
medical supplies, and Chairman: Mene, Mene, Tekel, 2
cooking equipment for Upharsin
the victims in Khyber
Do NOT register with ROS 3
Pasthunkwa region.
The floods, the worst Change religion data in MyKad 5
in Pakistan in 35 years, The ‘Allah’ Journey in Malaysia 6
have killed thousands of
7
people, devastated over MCCBCHST to Govt – “Be Fair”
three million people’s Change Not Impossible 8
lives and destroyed vast 1 United Church... 10
areas of crops.
Strong Family, Stable Nation 12
Rascist Remarks Condemned 13
www.necf.org.my/html/berita_f.htm
NECF Malaysia Council
Chairman
Rev. Eu Hong Seng Chairman’s Message
Vice-Chairman
Elder Kong Yeng Phooi

Mene, Mene,
Honorary Secretary
Pr Tay Wah Seng
Honorary Treasurer By Rev. Eu Hong Seng
Dr Khoo Kay Hup
Committee Members
Pr Jerry Dusing
Rev. Ng Kok Kee
Rev. Dexter Low
Miss Ee Joo Lian
Tekel, Upharsin
F
Elder Thomas Lim
Rev. Peter Mutang ew are familiar with these words, the powerful and the weak, kings and
Pr Chan Theam Lai even Christians. paupers alike, forget that though we
Rev. Foo Moy Peng forget God, He does not forget.
Rev. Elisha Satvinder But these words will one day haunt
Rev. Simon Chandran every careless soul, every self-centred, To the individual who persistently
Pr Samuel Surendran Krishnan
Advisor godless church, every vile authority sins, the day of reckoning will come.
Rev. Tan Sri Prince Guneratnam and every wicked nation. To the church who ignores the Word,
defiles herself and has no time to
NECF Malaysia Staff These mysterious words were the be missional, the lampstand will be
Secretary-General famous “writing on the wall” found removed. To the nation who thrives
Sam Ang
Senior Executive Secretary in Daniel chapter 5. Belshazzar the on unrighteousness, injustice, and
Patrick Cheng impious king was carousing with his robs the poor – floods, earthquakes,
Executive Secretaries concubines and debauched guests, fires and both economic and natural
Daniel Loh (Tamil) thumbing their nose at the God of disasters will be the norm.
Kathryn Tan (Finance) Israel, defiling the golden vessels of
Eugene Yapp (Research)
Alfred Tais (Bahasa Malaysia) the Temple, revelling into the wee That night in BC 539, knees were
Larry Lee (Youth and Leadership hours of the morning when all of a shaking. The Babylonian wise men
Development) sudden, the writing appeared on the could provide no answers. Despite
Andy Chi (Prayer, Evangelism and wall. the sobriety in atmosphere and the
Discipleship) willingness to seek counsel from the
Ong Juat Heng (Communications)
Jeff Chok (Information Technology) These words mean “God has num- man of God (Daniel), nothing could
Confidential Secretary bered your days,” “you have been change the course of history. It was
Ching Bee Gaik weighed and found wanting,” and not merely any writing on the wall – it
Administrative Secretaries “your kingdom is divided between the was the writing written by the very
Alice Wong Medes and the Persians.” finger of God.
Yvonne Chin
Leong Kit Wah
Sangan Mutang The all-powerful king had no inkling Materialism, kickbacks and perks
Administrative Assistants that his kingdom could end in less have desensitised many good
Sally Tan than 24 hours, well not at least people while compromise and the
Jouslly Buaya without a fight. In his overconfidence unwillingness to be discipled have
Executive Advisor
Rev. Wong Kim Kong, j.m.n. he forgot his humanity and definitely caused many churches to lose sight
the God his forefathers had encoun- of her missionality. On the national
Editorial tered. front, corruption and wastage remain
Editor unashamedly unabated.
Sam Ang “The writing is on the wall” is today
Assistant Editor
Ong Juat Heng a common English phrase. As it Know that the God who is in control
happened to the most powerful man of the universe, is not content to just
Address alive then, it can and it will happen keep spinning the planet. He is still
32, Jalan SS2/103, to any who dares mock and fearlessly capable of writing on the wall - and
47300 Petaling Jaya challenge our God. That fateful it could well be your wall, my wall or
Selangor, Malaysia
Tel: 603-7727 8227 night spelt the end of the Babylonian our nation’s wall.
Fax: 603-7729 1139 empire, proving once again that no
Email: berita@necf.org,my regime is exempt from divine dealings. It would pay for us to take note, as the
days will surely come when we would
Printed by Akitiara Corporation
1&3, Jln TPP1/3, All too often, the rich and the poor, hear our “mene, mene!”
Tmn Perindustrian Puchong
Batu 12, 47100 Puchong, Selangor
2 Berita NECF September–October 2010
Do NOT Register with ROS
T he Registrar of Societies (ROS)
has clarified at a meeting with
NECF Malaysia that churches
are not mandated to register with
it (ROS) as they have the right to
registered as societies first before they
could open a bank account.
Article 11(3)(a) of the Federal
Constitution clearly states that every
religious group has the right to establish
manage its own religious affairs.
This implies that these groups
cannot be compelled to form legal
associations as in doing so, they
subject themselves to many additional
exist under Article 11 of the Federal and maintain institutions for religious requirements.
Constitution. or charitable purposes. For example, by incorporating as
However, many churches are The word “institutions” must a company or registering as a society,
registering as societies to resolve necessarily include churches, temples religious groups make themselves
practical problems such as opening and the like. The very expression subject to all the requirements of the
bank accounts and holding properties. “religious group” used here already Companies Act 1965 and the Societies
“Properties can be held through a assumes that religious practice is often Act 1966.
company or trustee,” explained NECF a group experience. They are also subject to the authority
Malaysia Secretary-General Sam Ang. No conditions are found in Article of the Registrar of Companies and
“Hence, there is no need to become 11 or in the rest of the Constitution the ROS who may direct them to do
an ROS member just so you can hold that require a religious group to form certain acts or comply with certain
properties.” a legal association before it can be conditions.
As for the issue of opening bank regarded as lawful. Therefore, NECF’s stand is that
accounts, ROS informed NECF that On top of this, Article 11(3)(a) of churches do not need to be registered
it would seek clarification from Bank the Federal Constitution states that as societies.
Negara whether churches must be every religious group has the right to

...continued from front cover: Partner Power circulated throughout the world.
Such unethical and unaaceptable actions on the part of
religious bodies (Christian Fellowships, Buddhist societies, the Government highlight the unjust and biased position
etc.) at their whims and fancies, going against an earlier of the authorities against those who chose not to convert
circular from the Ministry of Education allowing to Islam.
the establishment of such bodies with It showed how state benefits that
certain provisos. are meant for the welfare of a
Dealing with such overzealous particular cultural community
civil servants will prove challen- have been manipulated for the
ging for us Christians as we strive selfish ends of some people.
to maintain our religious space. Again, moving against the tide
Will this issue be resolved once of such irregularities demands
and for all? Perhaps not, as there will concerted and united efforts from
always be “Little Napolean-Principals” churches and the relevant organisations.
trying to push their personal agenda. But that’s Predictably, the Malaysian Department of
why we need the national bodies to guard the interests of Orang Asli Affairs (JHEOA) denied offering material
their charges. inducements for conversion to Islam, but even as they are
In early August, the Aljazeera broadcast channel busy denouncing the Aljazeera news, reports of similar
carried a news report on the Pahang Government’s effort enticements to the indigenous communities in Sabah and
to convert the Orang Asli (indigenous people) to Islam Sarawak were surfacing.
by offering housing, electricity and material goods. The These are only a few examples. There are so many more
report showed images of brick houses belonging to those issues that need to be addressed at the highest level and it
who had become Muslims and wooden, straw houses of takes collaborative effort to gather the resources and face
those who chose not to convert to Islam. An Orang Asli the challenges. The vitality of partnership and networking
man interviewed said he lost his native land to the state is crucial and our call is for churches to avail their resources
government upon conversion to Islam. and work with us over the many critical national issues.
The news report, entitled “Malaysia ethnic tribes ‘forced Will you contribute your resources for the sake of our
to convert’ ” was uploaded on YouTube which is being Church and our nation? Find out how on pages 10 to 11.

Berita NECF September–October 2010 3


‘Allah’ from birth to death
Word used by East Malaysian Bahasa-speaking Christians throughout life

E ast Malaysian Bahasa-speaking Alfred presented the various books


‘Allah’ is
Christians have been using deeply in Bahasa Malaysia used by the Sabah
the word ‘Allah’ in all aspects ingrained Anglican Diocese for the different
of their faith throughout their lives – in every services and every book is heavily
aspect of
from the moment they were born to laden with the word ‘Allah’.
our lives.
the second they die. – Alfred
These books have been around and
‘Allah’ is used in the full spectrum used by the East Malaysian churches
of life – from the time the baby opens since pre-Merdeka, he said.
his eyes to the time he permanently “The word ‘Allah’ is deeply ingrained
closes them. in every aspect of our lives. How can
The word is used in all the rites and “We use ‘Allah’ from the time we anyone forbid us from using it? ” asked
rituals from baptism – including child open our eyes at birth to the time we Alfred, a Sabahan Kadazan.
baptism – to marriage, confirmation of close our eyes at death,” said Alfred
baptism, ordination and commissioning Tais, NECF Malaysia Executive uSee page 6 for more on ‘Allah’.
of leaders, right down to funerals. Secretary (Bahasa).

Cruising through the


By Sam Ang uPs and
downs of life
W e live in a society of insatiable desires, prodded
by the hidden persuaders of our society that
we need to acquire, consume, upgrade and
enlarge in order to have a good life.
In such a context, the concept of “enough” is a
advised in 1 Tim. 6:6: “But godliness with contentment is
great gain.” The key word here is “godliness.”
Here are three suggested thoughts on how godliness
should take shape in our lives.
1. Practise discipline in the things of God.
strange one. Then comes recession and a fierce struggle 2. Remember that sin has been defeated
arises between our insatiable desires and not having the 3. Believe in the sovereignty of God.
means to fulfill them.
Recession provokes strange, scary feelings, especially What are the practical steps we should take towards
to those who have never known what it is like to have “godliness”?
their desires unmet. It also creates “large-scale insecurity 1. Develop a lifestyle of limits, not luxury
and uncertainty”, as reported in Newsweek July 19, 2010. 2. Cultivate generosity, not greed
People feel more exposed and they tend to plan for 3. Emphasise personal worth rather than net worth
the worst rather than hope for the best. Their reluctance 4. Invest in the eternal, not just the temporal
to make major purchase commitments (a new car or
home) validates their pessimism by retarding recovery. We are to anticipate that we will be ushering difficult
Where do we as Christians stand on this issue? How times ahead. The economic outlook of the nation does
do we cope with the ups and down of life? not look rosy.
As Christians, one of the greatest virtues that we have The disparity between the rich and poor has
been taught is Christian contentment. True contentment widened considerably. As reported recently, a theoretical
endures in spite of our circumstances; it does not rise and household of 4.4 people would need RM858 a month per
fall with every turn of providence. person in order for them not to be declared poor.
True, lasting contentment comes only from knowing The ups and downs of life will remain the big
and trusting the Lord, a sure confidence in God’s challenge we all have to face.
providence and provision. Are we taking steps to tighten our belt and are we
In his letter to his spiritual son Timothy, Apostle Paul learning the art of contentment?

4 Berita NECF September–October 2010


Fuss-free way to change
religion data in MyKad
Baptism certificate not required

C hristians who wish to change their religion to


Christianity in their MyKad data are not required
to tender any legal documents, such as baptism
certificates.
At the meeting with NRD officials, NECF also raised
the issue of East Malaysian Christians whose religion
in their MyKad is recorded as “Islam” simply because
their names carry “bin” and
“binte”.
They only need to fill in
‘Borang A’ to effect the This is a prevailing problem in
change. (‘Borang A’ is Sabah and Sarawak where many
available on the NECF indigenous citizens have names that
website at www.necf.org. carry “bin” and “binte”. The NRD
my) automatically assigns their religion as “Islam”
even though many of them are Christians.
This was confirmed at
a recent meeting between The NRD confirmed that those who are affected could
NECF Malaysia and top officials from the National change the data in their MyKad provided they had
Registration Department (NRD). However, this is not obtained clearance from the Syariah Court.
applicable if they had been registered as Muslims.
During the meeting, NRD officials admitted they were
For Muslim or persons who have converted to Islam, aware of this problem and have thus arranged for
the provisions of the respective State’s administration of mobile NRD units to help those who wish to change
Islamic Law enactment apply. Under these enactments their MyKad religion record.
for the most part of the 13 States of Malaysia, conversion
back to one’s former religion or to any other religion NECF Secretary-General Sam Ang urged Christians
is either: (a) not allowed under Islamic laws; or (b) a who face this problem to get their religion changed to
criminal offence which means he/she may be fined, “Christianity” in their MyKad as soon as possible and
whipped, detained or imprisoned under Islamic laws. to persevere until the change is done.

When people convert to Islam, their person’s MyKad “This is important as it will contribute towards accurate
will record the conversion and the front of their MyKad statistics which is critical when we advocate on issues
will bear the word “Islam”. affecting the Malaysian Church, as well as to avoid undue
complications, misunderstandings and conflicts with
Even if the person no longer practises Islam, he/she the Islamic authorities,” he explained.
may be regarded as as a Muslim and may be subject to
fined, whipped, detained or imprisoned for violation The officials also confirmed at the meeting that children
of Syariah laws, such as praying in church and eating in of Malaysian women born of
public during the Muslim fasting month, etc. foreign husbands are
automatically Malay- POSTAL RATE
It must be noted that when a person converts to Islam, sians provided the
As the postage has gone up
that person does not gain Bumiputera status as some have couples have Ma-
last month, please use 60-sen
mistakenly come to believe. (Those with Bumiputera laysian marriage
stamps in your correspondence to
status get special privileges such as discounts for new certificates before
us. We have been paying a heafty
house purchases and easier access to enter public the birth of their
fine to retrieve your letters
universities.) children.
from the Post Office.”

Berita NECF September–October 2010 5


The ‘Allah’ Journey in Malaysia
THE Christian Federation of Malaysia (CFM) recently released a chronological outline of the Alkitab
and the ‘Allah’ issue to help Christians understand the beginnings of the use of the term ‘Allah’, the
publication of the Alkitab from earliest times, and the subsequent ban on the use of ‘Allah’ in the
Catholic weekly, Herald, and the Alkitab under the Internal Security Act along with its restricted
use in the Federation of Malaysia. We highlight here the key developments from the four-page
fact sheet which may be viewed in its entirety at the NECF Malaysia website.

• 1629 uA. C. Ruyl translated the Gospel of Matthew publications to be distributed on condition that the
into Bahasa Melayu. ‘Allah’ is used. front page has a cross with the words “Penerbitan
Kristian” (A Christian Publication). This is to prevent
• 1733 uFirst complete Malay Bible published. Transla- confusion among Muslims in Malaysia.
tion of Genesis by M. Leijdecker. “Pada mulanja
dedjadikanlah Allah akan swarga dan dunja.” (Gen. 1:1). • 2006 uLetter from Kementerian Keselamatan Dalam
Negeri allowing the publication of the Bible in Bahasa
• 1879 uSecond complete Malay Bible. Translation of Melayu in Malaysia with the conditions that it is
by H. C. Klinkert. “Bahwa-sanja Allah djoega salamatkoe.” stamped with the cross and the words “Untuk Penganut
(Isaiah 12:2). Beragama Kristian” (For Christians) and that the BM
Bible is to be sold only in Christian premises or shops.
• 1938 uTranslation of Gospel of John. “Maka pada awal The is to prevent confusion of Muslims in Malaysia.
pertama adalah Firman, dan Firman itu bersama-sama dengan
Allah.” (John 1:1). • 2006 uThird letter to Herald (a reprimand). Fourth
letter to Herald (a warning). Fifth letter to Herald
• 1981 uThe Alkitab banned by order under the Internal (another warning).
Security (Prohibition of Publications) on Dec 2.
• 2006 uHome Minister sets condition against the use
• 1982 uThe Alkitab banned by order under the Internal of ‘Allah’ on Herald in renewing its publication licence.
Security (Prohibition of Publications) on March 22. Herald seeks redress through the courts against the
power of the Home Minister to set conditions on the
• 1985/1989 uHeads of Malaysian Churches meet in use of the ‘Allah’ word. Sixth letter to Herald (a show-
Kuala Lumpur (1985) and Kuching (1989) where they cause letter).
unanimously decide to keep ‘Allah’ and the Bible Society
of Malaysia honour this decision when it publishes the • 2007 uHerald files A Writ of Summons and Statement
revised Malay Bible, the Alkitab Berita Baik (1996). of Claim on Dec 5. An Application for Judicial Review
on the condition cited above.
• 1986 uCircular letter to all Christian publishers
from the Publication Control Division of the • 2008 – Customs officers and Home Ministry officials
Kementerian Dalam Negeri (KDN) stating four detain the Alkitab at ports of entry and confiscate
words which are not allowed to be used in Christian publications, Sunday School children’s books and
publications: Allah, Kaabah, Baitullah and Solat. The CDs belonging to Sidang Injil Borneo and Jill Ireland
prohibition is to maintain public order and prevent any Lawrence Bill. Both parties initiate judicial appeals
misunderstanding between Muslims and Christians. against the Home Minister.

• 1998 uFirst letter (an admonition) to the Catholic • 2008 uAn Application for Judicial Review for Herald
weekly, Herald, from KDN not to use ‘Allah’. 2009 permit condition is filed.

• 2002 uSecond letter to Herald (a show-cause letter) • 2009, Dec 31 uHerald wins court case against the
to be answered within 14 days. Subsequently through power of the Home Minister to set conditions on the
appeal and Cabinet influence, Herald was granted the use of ‘Allah’ in the Herald publication. Government
use of ‘Allah’ in its publication. appeals the court decision.

• 2005 uLetter dated Dec 22 from Kementerian • Present uAwaiting Appeals Court to hear the case
Keselamatan Dalam Negeri allowing Christian

6 Berita NECF September–October 2010


“Be FAIR” – MCCBCHST tells Govt
Solve woes faced by non-Muslim family members of Muslim converts

T he Malaysian Consultative Council of Buddhism,


Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhsm and Taoism
(MCCBCHST) calls for a just solution to the
ordeals suffered by non-Muslim family members of
converts to Islam
necessary even to make a check on the Islamic register
of conversions? As was the case of Moorthy, the family
testified that he was a practising Hindu until the day he
died, even observing penance at Thaipusam.
That being the case, why would a non-Muslim family
Conversion to another religion involves emotional peacefully practising their own religion in Malaysia have
and legal adjustments, not only to the convert but also any reason to check if any member of their family had
to their parents, spouses, children and other converted to Islam unbeknownst to them?
family members. We may perhaps understand the need for
As such, to convert in secret secrecy in conversion cases should they
without due consultation with immediately be subjected to serious
or making it clearly known to and unlawful persecution. But in the
those the convert is intimately cases we are dealing with here, the
related to is surely not at all an converts are by no imaginable means
acceptable practice. subjected to persecution.
This is especially the case If they are, non-Muslims and
when an adult converts to Islam Muslims alike should take up the
from another religion. In cases of case for them as religion is a matter of
this nature, as has been evidenced in personal conscience. But in the cases we
numerous news reports, the new convert seems to have are here considering, it is the family members
unilateral of the converts to Islam who are experiencing legal
powers to direct that his or her children be con- consequences rather than the converts themselves.
verted to Islam without the necessity of the consent of MCCBCHST is therefore compelled to urge the
the other parent of the child/children. government to do the right thing and promptly set in
Laws and regulations governing the civil marriage are motion what in the first place it had first proposed by its
immediately replaced by Islamic law and practice, among own cabinet decision. That is, to initiate legislation for
which are those pertaining to inheritance, divorce and a “conversion bill” which would address the vital issues
alimony. Furthermore, it would seem that the civil courts related to conversion to Islam as it adversely affects the
are reluctant to hear such cases when one party of the non-Muslim family members.
marriage has become a Muslim. Under such blatantly In this respect, MCCBCHST takes positive note
unfair circumstances, why and how should non-Muslims of the statement issued by Malaysia Islamic National
accept these sudden changes that have come upon their Organisation Secretary-General Tan Sri Dr Abdul
lives? Hamid Othman (NST, Aug 7) who “suggested that
The current move by government authorities who the authorities also address the distribution of wealth
oversee the administration of the Islamic religion to family members”, adding that “sometimes, the issue
in Malaysia to plug loopholes in regulations on the following a convert’s death isn’t so much about religion
registration of Muslim converts as reported by The New but inheritance. Islamic law bars a convert’s non-Muslim
Straits Times (NST) on August 6 and 7 may seem a big family members from receiving any of his property.”
deal to those same authorities. He was quoted as saying that the religious authorities
But what effect would it in fact have on the affected should advise and help new converts to distribute their
non-Muslim spouses, children and parents? How would wealth to their beneficiaries before the conversion takes
it be a source of comfort and relief for the loved ones place, adding that “this will ensure that non-Muslims will
of the converts who often only find out their change not be victimised.”
of religion upon their deaths as was the case with the Tan Sri Abdul Hamid Othman’s comments are well
Malaysian hero, M. Moorthy? taken and any discussion along these lines will surely
The fact remains that if the family members make room for a just solution.
concerned were given no reason to even remotely suspect Editor’s Note: This is a press statement by
their change of religion, how would they think it was MCCBCHST.

Berita NECF September–October 2010 7


Pemandu CEO: Change Not Impossible
Believe in the power of prayer

C orruption is so rampant in the


country that Malaysians are
generally skeptical that it can
be eradicated.
Dato Sri Idris Jala, the Chief
beacons of light to
fight corruption,” he
added.
“Malaysia
never been in a more
has

Executive Officer of Performance vulnerable position


Management & Delivery Unit than it is now.
(PEMANDU) believes otherwise. But that’s not bad
“It is not impossible for the situation because vulnerability
in country to change,” he told a crowd is a virtue.
of several hundred people at the closing “It is when we are
of the recent NECF Malaysia Missional vulnerable that we Pemandu CEO Dato Sri Idris Jala (right): “It is when we are
Church Conference at Petaling Jaya. realise our need for vulnerable that we realise our need for God and we turn to
Believing there is hope in the country God and we turn to Him for help.” NECF Secreatry-General Sam Ang looks on as
because of a God who hears the cries of Him for help,” Dato NECF Chairman Rev. Eu Hong Seng presents Dato Sri Jala a
His people, he then shared his personal Idris pointed out and memento after his closing address.
experience of how, through his and reminded that after
many people’s desperate prayers, God we had done all we could in prayer and to practise the social gospel as they
helped him to turn around the fortunes action, the power to deliver change is in think it’s what liberal Christians do,” he
of two companies despite all the odds God’s hand. said. “But how can we reflect God if
against them. With that, he concluded his sharing, we don’t get involved in doing good,
Under his leadership as Managing took some questions from the floor and especially to the poor?” he asked.
Director and CEO of Malaysia rushed off to SIB Kuala Lumpur where
Airlines, the national carrier achieved a he was slated to speak to some 1,000 What makes a missional leader
record profit in less than two years after people at the church’s conference. During his session on missional leaders,
suffering the biggest financial loss in its Paul outlined five characteristics of
corporate history. Missional Church Conference a missional leader and concluded
Several years earlier when he was Earlier, some 180 participants were by encouraging the participants that
Managing Director of Shell Sri Lanka, enlightened and educated about the evangelicals are the most ideal people to
he helped to turn around the company’s mission of the Missional Church embrace the Missional Church concept
LPG business despite bomb threats and during three sessions of sharing by Dr because they have a similar view.
other critical dangers. Paul Alexander. He said missonal leaders 1) have
All these happened because In his sessions on the Shape, excellence in their craft; 2) gladly
of the “discipline of prayer and Leaders and Mission of the Missional invest in first class education and are
action”, he shared during his talk on Church, the essence of Paul’s message committed to studying God’s Word
the Government Transformation is that “The Missional Church is one critically and accurately; 3) have faith
Programme that he is overseeing. that reflects God”. as their driving passion to impact their
A devout Christian who sounded If we are to reflect God to the world, community; 4) have a healthy respect for
more like a preacher than a civil servant, we cannot do it inside our church walls; their peers and high tolerance for those
Dato Idris urged Christians to continue we have to step outside to a hurting of other views; and 5) are motivated
praying fervently for the nation. world and reflect Him to the desperate to redeem and not to condemn as they
“I truly believe in the power of and needy people there. genuinely care for people, recognize
prayer,” he said and revealed that he Having ministered in some of the they are sinners saved by grace and
and his wife were participating in the neediest countries in the world, Paul celebrate the diversity that God has
NECF 40-day Prayer and Fast. shared from his experience how he made.
He urged the crowd to pray for ‘evolved’ from one who just preached Participants also attended two
change of mindsets and for strong the Word to one who believed in and workshops each from a selection of
spiritual values among the people to practised the “social gospel” – a dirty workshops designed to inspire them to
fight the scourge of corruption. “As phrase to some Christians, he said.
Christians, we must stand firm as “Many Christians are discouraged Continued next page...

8 Berita NECF September–October 2010


JB Churches Collaborate
on Community Project
M ost churches prefer to carry
out community projects on
their own than to collaborate with
HANDS”, first
to help the Karen
Refugees in North-
other churches as it is easier to East Thailand, and
coordinate the work. then to communi-
So, when news got around that ties in and around
Johor Baru churches have come Johor Baru (such as CRS volunteers from different churches loading goods into a
lorry to be despatached to the needy.
together to do a joint community the poor or less privileged), NGOs
project, it raised more than a few who are involved in running social
eyebrows. homes (such as orphanages, old CRS is started by the JB Pastors’
folks’ homes and homes for the Fellowship. How did you
Called CRS, or Crisis Relief Store,
the project has the participation of “orang kurang upaya” or physically manage to come together to
several churches whose pastors disabled). do a joint project?
are members of the Johor Baru We received all kinds of goods Some pastors in the fellowship were
Pastors’ Fellowship (JBPF). from people and we realised that already active in this particular area
Pr Sonny, JPPF spokesman, tells we can do this on a more organised and we decided to come together to
Berita NECF what the ministry is basis to respond to disasters which go forth from another platform −
about. are beset-ting many countries. that of partnership and networking.
We envision that in peace times, Over the years of fellowshiping
Tell us about CRS churches which are already helping in JBPF, our relationship has become
The store was set up as a collection the poor in the community can strong enough for us to come
centre for goods, such as clothing, have access to this store to requisite together. Remember an old song
electrical goods and foodstuff that goods for the needy. called “Pass It On?” The first line
are required in times of need. We In times of crisis, CRS store will says, ““It only takes a spark to get
mooted this idea when we conducted be the first to be emptied to send the fire going.” We are just the spark
two rounds of “HELPING relief supplies to the affected area. Continued page 12...

...continued from previous page development, education, arts and industry.


entertainment, youths, business and the Pr Lim Jit Pang shared how he
media – were facilitated by practitioners motivated and mobilized several
in the field, all who are committed to hundred youths of various ethnicities
the cause of the Kingdom in their area and religions to do social work in
of work. Kluang, Johor. Entrepreneurs Bruce
Pr Dr Paul Chen opened his and Cathie Chong shared how they
participants’ eyes to the needs of are helping the needy, especially single
the Jehai Orang Asli community in mothers, to generate income by setting
northern Peninsular Malaysia and how up a small business.
the ministry has helped to improve Finally, Sreedhar Subramaniam
their quality of life. spoke about the influence of the media
Rev. Elisha Satvinder spoke pas- on shaping mindsets and unveiled
sionately about his work in setting up NECF’s e-media, “Good Times”, and
If we are to reflect God to the world. schools in needy communities around its potential in helping to transform the
we cannot do it inside our church the country. nation.
walls. – Dr Paul Alexander The multi-talented Colin Kirton Overall, the conference made a deep
enthralled the participants with his impact on the participants as they saw
serve society. hilarious but inspiring stories in his the need for the church to move out
The workshops – covering rural experience in the entertainment from its walls in to the community.

Berita NECF September–October 2010 9


1United Church
to Disciple the Nation
By Eugene Yapp

I n this issue’s editorial, churches


are urged to partner with NECF
Malaysia in her role to resolve the
many challenges and issues affecting
the welfare of the nation.
“people-groups” or “cultural affinity
groupings”.
The implication in terms of
missons strategy and practice is that the
church must give priority to reach the
political, civic, cosmopolitan state
boundaries and affairs.
Is such a massive enterprise possible
for any one church or Christian
organisation?
In short, the editorial aspires to see unreached people group of the world. In this era of globalisation,
the Christian community – irrespective Should the word “nations” therefore where inter-connectedness and
of ethnicity, denomination, theological be understood in this sense only? inter-relatedness are core essential
persuasion and practices – coming While affirming that “nations” characteristics, the idea of partnerships
together to be “disciplers of the embraces the ethnic dimension, rarely is inevitable and it is imperative for
nation”. has the word come to encompass the churches, organisations, NGOs and
The pertinent question to ask is: geo-political dimension. others to be open to the possibilities
What does “disciplers of the nation” Stephen Spaulding comments of working together by venturing into
mean? Ed Silvoso articulates the vision through his extensive study that constructive partnerships.
thus: the church is no longer interpreting By ‘constructive’, we mean
For the Bible to make sense…a “nations” as geo-political entities partnerships that are in accord with
series of paradigm shifts are but rather as ethnic entities when we the kingdom agenda of mission being
necessary to allow us to become read Scriptures, which to his mind is central and the expectations of parties
disciplers of nations, empowered untenable.2 Why? met through discussions, commitment
by the redemptive work of Christ Spaulding points out that when to each other, mutual understanding
to fully reclaim the marketplace and we talked of the word “nation”, we and interest in success by the pooling
worship God with our jobs so that can certainly incorporate the ethnic of resources.3
we can take the kingdom of God dimension into this understanding but It is only with such constructive
where evil is still entrenched so that to cease talking about geo-politics is partnerships that Christians can
nations will have the honor and not possible as a huge part of the word ever harbour the hope of becoming
glory restored.1 ethne in Scriptures relates to kings and followers of Christ in the task of
rulers, and this in turn relates to geo- “discipling the nation” – in its true and
Is the fulfillment of this vision politics in ways that “ethnic groups” comprehensive sense of the word.
possible or even viable? What is its will not.
biblical basis and justification? Hence, when we speak of “discipling Partnership prospects
The Bible has a Great Commission the nation of Malaysia”, it certainly What prospect is there in this venture
for us and calls on all Christians to cannot be confined to reaching out to of constructive partnerships in
“Go therefore and make disciples the more than 100 people-groups in discipling the nation? In view of the
of all nations, baptizing them in  the Malaysia. growing racial slurs and accusations
name of the Father and of the Son Our emphasis, focus, programme, uttered against other ethnicities, we
and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them plans and activities must battle for the will explore the possible potentials in
to observe all that I have commanded ‘soul of the nation’ with an overarching the area of national integration.
you (Matt.28:19 & 20). redemptive strategy that battles sins Could our constructive partnership
Through the influence of and prevailing evil in the various be geared towards reforming the
missiologist Ralph Winter and domains and institutions, seeking for “figured world-view” of nationhood
theologian John Piper, the word grace and repentance for every clan, in the idea of the sovereignty of the
“nations” has since exclusively been tribe, kingship, association, allegiance; people, equality of citizens in a nation
taken to mean “ethnic groups”, ethnic, cultural, linguistic enclave and and democratic institutions of society

10 B
Bee rr ii tt a
a N
NEEC
C FF S
Seep
p tt e
emmb
bee rr –– O
Occ tt o
obbe
e rr 2
2001
100
“ In this era of globalisation, where inter-connectedness
and inter-relatedness are core essential characteristics,
the idea of partnerships is inevitable and it is imperative
for churches, organisations, NGOs and others to be open
to the possibilities of working together by venturing into
constructive partnerships.

and national identity?



on mutually agreed universalistic core avoid a parochial vision of ministry
To undertake such reforms, it will values rather than affirmative action and sectarian interest in favour of
require input and attempts to alter the in favour of one ethnic group over shared resources for the benefit of
prevailing fundamental outlook of another based on ascriptive criteria. not only Christians but the needs
Malaysian society. Such an approach will likely of every community.
Historical factors such as the May extenuate racial tension and prevent • Rethinking on the trajectory – what
1969 racial riot and the implementation any one group from projecting is the sum total of all that we seek
of State-led Islamisation policies ethnicity in terms of special privileges to accomplish and what’s in store
that saw a progressive and systematic or the seeking of advantages in terms for all that the church seeks to do.
“Islamisation” of state institutions as of access to benefits and resources In this respect, churches
well as the propagation of Malaysia as solely. must place before them the
‘Negara Islam’ has resulted in the co- The above scenario and discussion ultimate hope that is inherent
existence of two dominant ideological demonstrate that it is imperative for in their calling as the people of
strands which set the prevailing funda- churches to come together in the God – the hope of reconciliation
mental outlook of the social-political gathering of resources for the common for all communities that serves as
landscape in Malaysia. good of the nation. motivation and encouragement to
Consequently, inter-ethnic relation No doubt this will require concer- all who persevere.
in the country has deteriorated and this ted and united prayer, cutting across
has in fact affected national integration denominational barriers. May God bless our witness to
and the state of religious liberty in the But we believe that in this moment Malaysia!
country. This is illustrated by the various of the “call to truth”, the Lord expects
Malay rights groups demanding that more than prayer and spiritual warfare. REFERENCES
the government prohibit other ethnic It demands the church to review and (Endnotes)
groups from raising and discussing reflect on the following: 1
Ed Silvoso, Transformation: Change
the special position and rights of the • Redefining the church – looking into the Market Place and You Change the
Malays. who we are and what the church is World. (California: Regal Books, 2007),
This unique context providing the supposed to be doing for the sake 30
backdrop, as well as enveloping our of a “One United Malaysia”.
social-cultural setting, presents a clear In this respect, it is incumbent 2
Stephen Spaulding, “’Nation’ and
challenge for churches to be involved on Christians to firmly plant our feet Mission: Reviewing the Target, Task,
in pursuing a more multi-layered, multi- in Malaysian soil to take hold of our Trajectory and Temple of Mission”,
cultural worldview as part of Christian place as part and parcel of Malaysia Journal of Asian Mission (2010) 12:1:
mission and witness to society and the and see that we have the rights to 33-85, at p.68
nation. ensure a viable future for ourselves,
In doing so, the church must take our children, grandchildren and all 3
Viggo Sogaard, “Missiological Education
the lead in ensuring the social dynamics other fellow Malaysians. through Decentralized Partnerships” in
are structured along genuine inter- • Refocusing on the task – what Missiological Education for the Twenty-
ethnic interaction, but allowing for constitute the churches’ actions and First Century: The Book, the Circle and
cultural differences or diversity. activities in contra-distinction from the Sandals. Essays in Honor of Paul
This requires the promotion of a the world’s agenda and how are we E. Pierson, eds., J. Dudley Woodberry,
broad-based policy of education and to organise ourselves to fulfill this Charles Van Engen & Edgar J. Elliston
bringing awareness to the population “new” task. (1997; reprint, Eugene, OR: Wipf &
at large to perceive social realities based In this respect, churches must Stock, 2005), 204-205

B 11
e r i t aB e
N rEi C
t aF NSEeCpFt e Smebpet e r –bOecr t 2o 0b1e0r 2 011
r –mObcet o 10
S By Lee Wee Min
TRONG FAMILY
TABLE NATION

I t has been said that “the state of


union of a nation depends on the
state of union of the family”.
This basically means that the
family is the basic functional unit
young so that he would not depart
from it when he is old. Hence if
family members are intentional and
purposeful in developing strong
With the results, married couples
can then work on improving on areas
which require some effort or to seek
assistance in these areas which are of
concern. Couples can also be affirmed
positive values within the family, this
of society and the well-being of the will eventually be manifested in society in areas which they are doing well and
society depends on the well-being of and will result in a strong and stable hence, continue to strengthen these
the family. If the family is sound and nation. areas.
stable, it will result in a stable society Focus on the Family (FOTF) has As a married couple is the starting
which will eventually lead to a strong several tools to help families build and the foundation of a family, it is so
nation. strong foundations. Couple Checkup important that this union is constantly
Many social ills confronting the is one of them. This is an online being refreshed and renewed. Strong
nation are related to a crack in the diagnostic tool developed by marriage married couples will also make the
foundation of the family. The family and family experts for people who role of parenting much easier. We have
provides the main platform where are dating, engaged or married. “By to constantly remind parents that the
positive values are taught and caught, answering 124 questions, the couple greatest gift they can give their children
and if the family unit is not present will be able to know the state of their is to love each other.
to pass on such values, children will relationship and individual personality Through Couple Checkup,
be influenced from outside the family. in 20 different areas.” relationships and marriages can be
Unfortunately, oftentimes, the influence This is an excellent tool as it is able strengthened and when marriages
is not positive or wholesome. to focus on the main components of are thriving, so will the family and
It is so important for children a marriage relationship and hence, one eventually the nation.
during their formative years to have does not have to speculate nor mind (Lee Wee Min is the Executive Director
strong positive influence in their lives. read each other. As the Checkup has of FOTF Malaysia. To know more about
As the Bible clearly says in Proverbs, high levels of scientific rigour, its Couple Checkup, check out FOTF website
we should train a child when he is results are very accurate and reliable. www.family.org.my)

...continued from page 9...


Join 100 million Christians on 10.10.10 to pray for the poor
Micah Challenge is a global and we use our hands to demonstrate in the hands of God who will get
coalition of Christians responding to God’s love. this fire of the church reaching
the MDGs (Millennium Development Politicians need to hear that out to the community going.
Goals). The MDGs were agreed by people care and that they will be held
189 nations in 2000 to reduce extreme accountable to their pledge. Handover What are the benefits of
poverty by 50 per cent by 2015. of handprints will remind them that churches working together
Micah 2010 is the campaign for this they have only five years left to fulfil on a project compared with
year, culminating in a day of prayer their promise. a church doing it alone, as in
for the poor on 10.10.10 (October 10, In Malaysia, churches may give their the case of CRS?
2010). Some 100 million Christians handprints to Malaysian Care who will There’s a verse in the Bible which
worldwide are expected to pray for the then hand them over to a Minister. says, “If one of us can put a
leaders of the 189 nations to remember Malaysian Care and NECF Malaysia thousand to flight, two can put
thier pledge to bringing half a billion are excited to be part of Micah 2010 ten thousand...” This is God’s
people out of extreme poverty. and invite churches to participate.
multiplier effect. We believe
As a sign of the promise, participants For more information, check
strongly that this will be the
will raise their hands in promise, and out Malaysian Care website www.
then make a special handprint. Hands malaysiancare.org and impetus to reach the community
mean worship, hands pledge support www.micah2010.org in a more effective way.

12 Berita NECF September–October 2010


Religious leaders condemn
nation’s commitment to a multi-ethnic
and multi-religious society where all
citizens can be guaranteed a shared
principal’s rascist remarks destiny in Malaysia as Malaysians based

A
on peace and justice.
Johor secondary The time has passed
school principal’s “The nation needs just and fair whereby mere platitudes
racist remarks
against her non-Malay
actions rather than just words.” and words from the
national leadership and
students have roused a storm of of Christianity, Buddhism, Hinduism, enforcement authorities in themselves
protest and among the public. Sikhism and Taoism (MCCBCHST) will be enough. The nation needs just
Her case is being investigated by who immediately issued a statement and fair actions rather than just words.
the police and Education Ministry following the media reports. MCCBCHST calls for its
after over 50 parents and students MCCBCHST says: “In the light component religious communities
lodged reports againt the principal. of the latest, in an increasing line of and all other Malaysians, regardless
During her speech at her school’s provocative racist remarks, this time of ethnic or religious affiliation, to
Merdeka (National Day) celebration by a principal of a school in the state join together to pray that the sitting
on Aug 12, the principal had allegedly of Johor, MCCBCHST calls upon government will take responsibility to
described non-Malays as “penumpang” the authorities to take prompt and take appropriate action to stop blatant
(passengers) in the country and told the appropriate action to demonstrate racist acts and utterances.
Chinese students to study in a Chinese that such dastardly acts and words At the same time, let all peace-
school or go back to China. perpetrated by government servants, loving, fair-minded Malaysians join
She was also alleged to have said regardless of their rank, is not and will together to raise an unignorable chorus
the prayer strings Indian students tied not be tolerated in Malaysia. of disapproval against racism in all its
around their necks and wrists were The Johor school incident forms.
similar to dog leashes. occurring as it did in the run-up to
Joining the chorus of protests is the coming National Day celebrations LET US STOP RACISM BEFORE
the Malaysian Consultative Council casts a sombre shadow over the RACISM STOPS OUR NATION!”

Helping pastors and leaders to handle church finances responsibly


C hurch governance is seldom taught in Bible seminaries,
but it is a subject that is increasingly needed to equip
pastors and ministers to better manage their churches’
Governance and Spiritual Leadership”.
This first-of-its-kind five-session course runs over five
weeks beginning Sept. 7 at the NECF conference room.
finances. Course participants will learn what church governance and
As churches grow, they need a good sound structure and leadership are in the context of the physical church, and
processes to ensure a healthy environment for stewardship the proper processes to be established for elected leaders
and accountability of the resources provided by God to be accountable for their financial decisions.
through the community of believers. Among the things participants will learn from the
Unfortunately, churches have been mired in course are:
controversies, as highlighted in a recent newspaper report • The different types of registration of a church available
(The Star, 10 June 2010) where some churches and other under Malaysian laws, and the right thing to do, if does
religious bodies were accused of committing “unholy not want to be registered;
acts” of factional feuds, non-compliance on procedures • The difference between legal structuring as compared
of fund withdrawals and non-adherence to their by-laws with Biblical structuring of the governing body (elders,
and constitutions. deacons, ministers/pastors and board members); and
While churches that are registered with the Registrar of • Simple keeping of financial records, preparation of
Societies or Registrar of Companies have external laws to financial statements and reports.
regulate proper governance procedures, the non-registered The course is facilitated by Cheah Foo Seong, a retired
ones may fall prey to such problems. company secretary with over 20 years’ experience in
Realising the critical need for good governance and corporate advisory services relating to secretarial practice,
leadership to present the Church as “blameless and above accounting and tax.
reproach”, NECF Malaysia and Malaysia Bible Seminari Pastors and leaders who missed out on the first intake
decided to collaborate to offer a course on “Church are strongly urged to register for the next intake.

Berita NECF September–October 2010 13


Shah Alam Christian Cemetery Opens
A
cemetery.
fter 10 years of countless meetings with the
authorities, Shah Alam churches – both Roman
Catholic and Protestant – finally have their own

The Shah Alam Christian Cemetery was officially opened


opening ceremony was attended by MBSA officials,
members of Shah Alam Christian Fellowship (SACF) and
representatives from the Christian Federation of Malaysia
(CFM), Other guests included SACF founder member
Rev. Fr. Raymond Pereira and former SACF committee
on July 29 by Shah Alam Mayor Dato’ Mazalan Md. Noor. members.
The cemetery was earlier dedicated last Oct 24. It contains The Christian cemetery is an inter-denominational
1,132 burial plots for adults and 100 plots for children. cemetery reserved for the burial of Christians residing in
Organised by Shah Alam City Council (MBSA), the Shah Alam. It is managed and maintained by MBSA while
SACF acts as “Friends of the Cemetery” and assists MBSA
in maintaining the area. SACF too assists in endorsing the
burial forms of the deceased Christians.
Guests were later treated to tea sponsored by Nirvana
Memorial Park. SACF chairman Pastor David Tham
expressed his gratitude to all involved in realizing the dream
of having a cemetery for Shah Alam Christians.

JOB VACANCY
NECF Malaysia is looking for an
ADMINISTRATIVE SECRETARY to
assist the Nation-Building and
Prayer ministries in the organisation.
Finally, a burial place for Shah Alam Christians.. From left To apply, contact Ching Bee Gaik
to right: Pn. Hjh Norakma (Pengarah Jabatan Penilaian MBSA), at the NECF office
Pr David Tham (SACF Chairman), Rev. Sean Prasad (SACF
Vice- Chairman), Dato’ Mazalan Md Noor (Shah Alam Mayor), (tel. 03-7727 8227).
MBSA officer, and Rev Fr. Raymond Pereira

Bribery and Corruption: Biblical Reflections and


Case Studies for the Marketplace in Asia
Author: Bishop Dr Hwa Yung

T he external pressures faced by


Christians in the marketplace
in Asia are the same as those faced
the real pressures they face in the
marketplace. It takes seriously both
the Scriptures and the context in which
by Christians worldwide. Few of us Asian Christians function.
have sufficient inner spiritual strength In order to provide a holistic look
and pastoral support to deal with the at the issues involved,  Bribery and
relentless power of sin as manifested Corruption  begins with a theological
in the corporate world. framework for grappling with real-time
Increasingly too in a globalised problems, continues with responses
economy, there is a need for Christians from various theologians on the
in the West to understand the framework presented, and concludes
ramifications of working in Asia. with actual case studies from the
This short book is one attempt to marketplace.
respond to the need to help Christians Available at all Glad Sounds
in Asia find a biblical response to outlets.

14 Berita NECF September–October 2010


COMING UP . . .

All-expense paid holiday for PKs and MKs


December 7–9 • Swiss Garden Resort Kuantan

C alling pastors’ and missionaries’ kids (PKs and MKs) aged


between 15 and 25 years. Register quickly for an all-expense
paid holiday at the beautiful beachside hotel, Swiss Garden Resort
Kuantan.
Besides all the fun-filled but meaningful activities, sumptuous
meals and Spirit-lifting messages, there are many grand prizes to be
won, including Ipads and Netbooks.
This treat is made possible through the generosity of Christians
who want to appreciate PKs and MKs. After all, life for them can
be tough with high expectations on their behaviour – dress holy,
talk holy, act holy.
This retreat is an opportunity for PKs and MKs to unload their
burdens (if any) among people who empathise with their struggles,
and then be ministered to by speakers from the US, Australia and
Malaysia.
This rare retreat jointly organised by NECF Malaysia and Impact
Pastors, Impact Nation (IPIN) Australia. We pray that
through this retreat. God will raise up a new generation
of pastors and church leaders.
NECF MALAYSIA WELCOMES
NEW MEMBERS
ORDINARY MEMBERS
National Children’s Pusat Revival Kristian Negri Sembilan, pastored by Lok
Yem Sew; Breakthrough Network Centre Bhd, Kuching,
Prayer Conference 2010 represented by James Lim Tin Hoon; Church of Praise,
Johor Baru, pastored by Rev. Patrick Tan; Immanuel Revival
Fellowship, Banting, pastored by Alexander Manisekaran;
• 22–23 (Mon–Tues) November 2010 •
The Ambassadors International Church, Kuala Lumpur, rep.
DUMC, Petaling Jaya, Selangor by Rev. Amos Great Enebeli: Gateway City Church, Penang,
rep. by Edward Lim Chen Tee; Gereja Shalom Gemencheh,
Who should Parents, pastors/Children’s Negri Sembilan, pastored by Rev. Samuel C. Jesudasan; Paya
attend? Ministry workers and children Terubong Chinese Mission Church, Penang, pastored by
involved in intercession ministries Elder Tan Eng Chye; C3 Church Klang, pastored by Joseph
Ramayah; C3 Church Kuala Lumpur, pastored by Joseph
Objective To launch Children’s Prayer Cells/ Ramayah; C3 Church Kuala Selangor, Selangor, pastored by
Children’s House of Prayer Subramaniam Ratnam; C3 Church Kapar, Klang, pastored
by Mageson a/l Muniandy; Pantai Baptist Church, Petaling
Organiser NECF Malaysia Prayer Commission Jaya, pastored by Rev. Marvin Wong Kang Yee; Pertubuhan
and Children’s Prayer Network Penganut Agama Kristian Mount Sinai Glory, Ipoh, pastored
by Stephenson a/l Dhas; Bandar Puchong Gospel Centre,
Fee Adult RM60, Child RM20 Purchong, rep. by Ong Hock Chye; and Gempuru Besai
Kristian Jaku Iban (M) Bhd, Kuching, rep. by Pr Greman
Contact Mei Sean at 012-329 0680 for more information
Ujang ak Slat.

Berita NECF September–October 2010 15


n g o u t
k i n g u p
Lo o k i L o o
Suffering Foreigners in our Midst

T
his issue, we focus prayers on the 2 million migrants and refugees living in our midst, many of whom live in
destitute conditions with little to hope for. The contents are extracted from the prayer guide “Disappointed
By Hope” jointly produced by YWAM Penang and Raise Their Voice Against Injustice (Canada).

Sex Slaves Women from Burmese refugees As refugees and more churches
China, Vietnam and other Asian of Jan 2010, there are 79,284 refugees will step forward to support the
nations arrive in Malaysia with valid and asylum-seekers in Malaysia. UNHCR’s work in providing
work contracts, expecting to work as Of these, 73,287 are from Burma, vocational skills training such as
domestic workers, in factories or in comprising some 17,712 Rohingyas sewing and carpentry; and
the food industry. In some cases, they from the Northern Rakhine State. • The Government will recognise
discover that their agent has lied and The Rohingyas are particularly refugees registered with UNHCR
are forced into a life of prostitution vulnerable in Malaysia. Stateless for as genuine refugees.
that is difficult to escape. nearly three decades, the political junta
Crime syndicates boldly entrap revoked their citizenship in 1982. Refugee children
women and use loopholes in the Hundreds of thousands of According to a Suaram press statement
legal system to meet the demand for Rohingyas have left Burma, most of issued in Aug 2009, the total number of
prostitution. There are insufficient them seeking refuge in Bangladesh, detainees in Malaysia’s 13 Immigration
law enforcement resources to combat Thailand and Malaysia where they are. detention centres from 2004 to 2008
trafficking effectively. heavily taxed, denied the publication of was 235,397.
Women who have been rescued are literature, violently treated, subjected Of these, 3,675 were children –
kept in shelters while their cases are to forced labour. 2,652 boys and 1,023 girls. Detainees
investigated. Some victims want to go During their stay in Malaysia, often suffer from overcrowding, poor
home immediately. Others fear return many Rohingyas have been detained, nutrition, insufficient clothing and
because of reprisals by the gangsters deported, whipped and sold to inadequate access to health services.
who brought them to Malaysia or traffickers on the Thai border. Others Refugee children endure the
those who owned them while they regularly face arrest and extortion from trauma of being smuggled out of their
were here. irresponsible personnel in the police nations into their country of refuge
Once they are confirmed as victims, and RELA. only to endure long days of boredom,
the women must remain at the shelter Malaysia is one of the few countries punctuated by fear as they hide inside
for a minimum of three months. They in the world that has yet to sign the apartments.
are isolated with occasional visits 1951 Convention Relating to the Status • Malaysia has ratified
from social workers. There are few of Refugees or the 1967 Protocol and P R A Y the Convention of the
programs or resources available to therefore, does not offer Burmese Rights of the Child.
keep the women occupied. Many battle refugees protection or legal status Pray the Government will uphold
boredom, fear and depression. while in the country. its obligation to protect all children,
• For the release of P R A Y • The government including the migrant, asylum-
P R A Y the many women who will ratify the 1951 seeking and refugee children;
are “kidnapped” into Convention and 1967 Protocol and • For His comfort on those children
prostitution; work together with local NGOs presently in Immigration detention
• For more women counselors to be to provide aid to the Burmese centres or separated from parents
trained to minister to these women refugees; who are detained in these facilities;
rescued from trafficking; and • The government will allow the and
• For improved cooperation among Burmese refugees here to work so • God to protect the refugee children
the Malaysian police and local they can have a better life; left alone all day and for more
NGOs to help the trafficked women • For awareness among Malaysian churches to step forward to minister
and for increase in resources for Christians on the plight of the to the children by starting day-care
the police Anti-Trafficking Unit. Rohingyas and other Burmese centres, schools and crèches.

16 Berita NECF September–October 2010

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