Mohamad Ajmal Hafiz ('Please do not talk about things you don't know', Nov 23) has missed my point. I do not claim to know more about Islam. The point I'm trying to make is that Islam is practised differently in different countries. Its respectability will depend on who practises it.

This is true for all religions. Different cultures in different countries will interpret religion's teachings differently. Hence the Taliban practise Islam in a tribal way and commit atrocities in the name of 'Islam' against tribal minorities and women. And the Christians once carried out inhuman acts during the Inquisition era.

Having met and talked with other Muslims in other parts of the world, I realised that interpretation is very important in a multi-religious country. My Egyptian friend showed great tolerance for my mistake and his explanation made me realise that religion, all religions, can be practised on a higher plane.