With regard to Mat Sopian's letter 'How can non-Muslims criticise Islam freely?' (Aug 15), as a Muslim, I am aghast and ashamed that such words could come out from a fellow believer. I believe our non-Muslim friends are merely voicing their concerns over an idea, a theoretically idealistic way of life that would supposedly benefit all, regardless of their race or religion.

Even a visionary leader like Lim Kit Siang doesn't have a full grasp of the concept, what more the pseudo-political analysts like most of us. The Umno-controlled media's portrayal of Islam as equal to the Taliban or chopping of hands has contributed to this confusion.

The writer should take all this into consideration and feel what it's like to be in their shoes. At the same time, I would also like to advise my non-Muslim friends not to jump to any conclusion before getting the facts straight from the horse's mouth.

It's a complex issue which will need time to sort itself out, but believe me, it's not meant to harm any soul.