ALIRAN condemns the recent assault on freedom of speech by cyber bullies, abetted by officials who need to examine their priorities and review their standard operating procedures (SOPs). The book "Unveiling Choice" - and the discussion surrounding it - principally revolves around the difficulties faced by Muslim women in opting to wear or not wear a hijab. There is a need to discuss and analyse the roots of such coercion and insistence on controlling what women can or cannot wear. It stops by otherwise decent leaders such as Mujahid acting based on their conscience and not based on political expedience. In a supposedly new Malaysia, civilised discourse especially on things considered controversial is not an option; it is essential.

Source: The Star April 19, 2019 12:45 UTC