With reference to Syed Hashim's 'PAS, DAP share dilemma' (Sept 6), the writer concludes that the majority of Malaysians fear the creation of an Islamic state because they have been misinformed by the present Barisan Nasional government. I would like to give my humble opinion as a non-Muslim citizen living in Malaysia.

Firstly, I have nothing against any religion or superstitious beliefs practised by anyone in this country as long as it is not in conflict with universal moral values. Furthermore, I firmly believe that every major religion practised in Malaysia teaches high moral values and should be respected by everyone.

Secondly, I also believe that religion is something extremely personal between a person and God. It is something that comes from within and not something to be forced onto someone from the outside. We may preach to others about the good teachings of a particular religion and encourage them to join in. However, at the end of the day, it is up to them to decide whether to embrace the religion or not.

Religion is something very abstract in a sense that we believe in something that we cannot see or touch. It is deeply rooted in our hearts and cannot be judged from the outer appearances of a person.

Who are we to judge which religion is better or not? Who are we to claim that our religion is superior to others?

Syed Hashim is in the opinion that the moves by PAS where it is in control, to make women wear headscarves, impose separate lanes for the two sexes in shopping complexes and ban the Genting casino should it come to power in Pahang, should not be interpreted as curbing freedom. While it is understandable that imposing stricter laws may lower the crime rates committed by irresponsible people, is there any proof that the above-mentioned laws can reduce offences such as prostitution, rape, womanising, etc?

Furthermore, if such laws are the only solution that can keep a person's mind away from temptation, what if the person were to go overseas? Or he/she decides to move to a place where there are no such laws?

Lastly, I decided to put on air my opinions to invite more frank and healthy debates in this forum, given the fact that I do not see why religion is such a sensitive issue if our leaders are claiming that the people of Malaysia are very intelligent and mature.