In the case of underage children, it is the right of the parent or guardian to make decisions for them. Referring to the conversion case, the parent who has the right to do this would be the mother since the Federal Court has rightly granted the custody of the two boys to her.

However, it is now argued that custody is not a sufficient basis for her to decide what religion they are to follow. Instead, the Syariah Court is making the decision for her (and them!).

Funnily enough, the Syariah Court intervening in this case is that of Selangor where only the father resides. However, the births of the children and the marriage of the couple were registered in Kedah, which is where the mother and two sons are residing.

I wonder why the Syariah Court is involved in this at all? Is it because the father is a Muslim convert?

Even if this were so, custody was not granted to him and therefore he should not have a greater say than his wife in making this decision for his children. As the father he has a part to play in shaping the future paths of his children but the final say is still up to his wife, the mother.

Also, why should she explain herself to the Federal Territory Islamic Council? She did nothing wrong. Standing up for her sons is not wrong. Furthermore, she is a non-Muslim, which indicates that the case rightfully should be heard in a secular court.

As custodian, the mother has the right to raise her sons in her faith until such an age when they may decide to follow another path.

To me this seems to be a case of inconsistency and mishandling of power. It is clear that this should not be a battle between a mother and a religious state court. Has anyone taken into account how this fair (or unfair) this is towards any of the parties involved?

Try fitting yourself into everyone's shoes: the husband, the righteous mother and the judge. See things from their perspectives. Personally, I felt th pain and hurt for the mother. She is just trying to protect what is still rightly her family.

Childhood only happens once in a lifetime. Parenthood is an important part of many people's lives and it should be a satisfying one. Both the parents and children should be able to look back with memories of peace and happiness.

I hope, pray, and urge that we (especially the courts) will take responsibility to make sure that this and religious freedom can be achieved.