The Global Human Rights Federation (GHRF) is alarmed over a TikTok video posted by user brofirdauswong, which has sparked outrage and criticism from netizens. The video depicts a conversation between secondary school teacher and Ustaz, and preacher Firdaus Wong, regarding the conversion of secondary students in Form 3, Form 4, and Form 5 to Islam.
In the 4 minute and 12 second video, the Ustaz seeks advice from preacher Firdaus Wong on handling students who wish to convert to Islam. Preacher Wong advises the Ustaz to convert the minors by reciting the kalimah syahadah but to avoid taking any pictures, videos, or registering these conversions officially, as the students are below 18 years of age. He further suggests that teachers should convert these minors and then teach them about Islam discreetly.
This advice raises serious ethical concerns about the covert conversion of minors without parental consent. It also calls into question the legality of such actions under Malaysian law and the Federal Constitution. Specifically, the Federal Constitution of Malaysia, under Article 12 Clauses 3 and 4, states:
- Clause (3): No person shall be required to receive instruction in or take part in any ceremony or act of worship of a religion other than their own.
- Clause (4): For the purposes of Clause (3), the religion of a person under the age of eighteen years shall be decided by their parents or guardian.
The actions depicted in the video not only disregard the rights of the parents but also raise serious ethical and legal questions about the conversion of minors without parental knowledge. The suggestion by the preacher to conduct such conversions covertly undermines the authenticity and sincerity of religious faith, which should stem from genuine belief and understanding, not coercion or manipulation.
The GHRF condemns the unethical actions depicted in the TikTok video, as they involve teaching children to lie and engage in religious activities behind their parents’ backs. This is deeply concerning and raises questions about the values and lessons being imparted to young school children. GHRF advises parents to closely monitor their children, especially those still in school, to prevent such covert conversions.
In the past, we have lodged numerous police reports against preacher Firdaus Wong, but no action has been taken thus far. Therefore, GHRF urges the Ministry of Education, JAKIM, and other Islamic bodies in Malaysia to take responsibility and thoroughly investigate these matters. The prevalence of unlawful conversions in Malaysia is a serious issue that needs to be addressed to protect the rights of minors and uphold ethical standards in religious conversions.
S. Shashi Kumar
President of GHRF
