DEACON DR SHERMAN KUEK
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Open Letter to Alvin Tan

22/4/2015

211 Comments

 
Dear Mr Alvin,

I am writing to you because I am personally angered by what I consider to be a grossly disrespectful and utterly heinous act performed by you in bad will. Rather than speaking against your act in a way that condemns you disrespectfully behind your back, I have chosen to address you personally in what I hope to be a respectful way.

Like the rest of the Malaysian public, I am aware of your lack of regard for authority, social propriety and moral sobriety. I will therefore not be surprised if this open letter is retorted with blatant rudeness; perhaps the best thing you can do is to simply ignore it all together. But given the context in which we Malaysians are presently living, what you’ve done cannot be dismissed without a voice of dissent from a fellow Malaysian.

You may wonder why I, of all people, would choose to take the time to write this tedious response to the video you’ve posted of yourself chanting the Muslim Azan bare-bodied with the accompaniment of a keyboard. It may not have been your intention to disdain the idea of religious practice as a whole, but it is utterly offensive all the same because despite your mockery depicting a particular religion, the spirit of your practice constitutes a brutal assault against religion itself. Such mockery attacks, in a very personal way, not just our Muslim friends but also peoples of all religions in the world who have their unique ways of expressing their desire to reach for the Divine. Your mockery might as well be a depiction of the Catholic Latin chants or the Hindu chanting of the vedas, and either way, the fundamental principle of respect for the religious conscience of our fellow neighbours would have been severely violated. For this, your act makes me angry.

Further to that, if it was merely the Muslims in Malaysia you have sought to offend or despise, you are grossly mistaken in your reading of the Malaysian situation. I wish you had taken more time to analyse and understand what is going on in our country and sought to engage constructively rather than doing it in such an undignifed manner.

From a very young age, I’ve had deep respect for the vast majority of Muslims I’ve known. I’ve respected their love for God, their devotion to their families, and particularly, I’ve often admired the way Muslim children are taught to relate with their parents. In my personal life and faith today, I make it a point to practise what I have come to understand from my Muslim friends about the importance of reverence towards God and our elders, and also the vitality of community living. I believe that living among Muslims all these years has made me a much better Christian than I would otherwise have been.

I don’t think you meant to mock the kind of well-meaning Muslims I’ve just described. Perhaps you were reacting towards the politicisation of religion in Malaysia and meant to spite the select few who have misused religion for certain political agendas. In the first place, the way you have done it brings no good to the cause of many of us who have staked our lives in choosing to stay on in this country to participate in the rebuilding of the nation in a constructive and positive way. In the second place, your act has attacked not just the perpetrators of political religion but also the vast majority of Malaysians who are peacefully simply loving God or practising their religions in the best ways they know how.

Despite the many alleged prospects of a better life for us and for our next generation had we moved out of the country, many of us have chosen to stay because this is where we were born and this is where we want our children to grow up. We choose this, not because there are no perils confronting us in the country, but because we want to be committed to a hope for a better Malaysia. Because of this, we have chosen to engage in the most constructive possible ways and not cause further social and political damage to our fellow Malaysians only to seek asylum elsewhere while leaving everyone else back home to face the mess we’ve created. You have mocked everything that we stand for with our lives.

Freedom of expression is necessary indeed for a society to progress, as it allows for society to be imbued with a mechanism of self-critique and self-reflection. But there can also be such a thing as an irresponsible and immature freedom of expression that exploits this virtuous principle by bringing damage to truth, beauty and goodness that can be found in a civilisation. I respectfully but truthfully submit that you are guilty of the latter moral crime. For this, I feel sorry that you have chosen to showcase such a grossly disrespectful act against our Muslim friends.

In a personal capacity and as a Malaysian, I strongly renounce every such act that you have committed and may continue to commit. And I affirm my deep reverence for all well-meaning Malaysians who hold on fast to teachings that are true and holy in their religious beliefs and practices. And I pray that one day, you too will come to this awareness in your conscience that the last thing Malaysia needs right now is another source of division, and a very unnecessary one at that. Your video recording, which is more narcissistic than it is funny or entertaining, is a spite on all our efforts to build a better society for our children of all religions.

All this notwithstanding, I wish you a good life in America where your expression can be truly free. But ultimately, it is not the exercise of such privileges and rights that determines the quality of a man. The kind of people we are, or become, is determined by little choices we make every day to seek peace, love, and friendship with our neighbours even when there is no advantage to be gained for ourselves.



The Rev. Deacon Dr Sherman Kuek OFS
A Deacon of the Catholic Church in Malaysia

Note: This letter is written on my own accord and represents neither the Catholic Church nor any other institution affiliated with me.
211 Comments
James Lau link
22/4/2015 07:11:07 am

Dr. Sherman, thank you for this letter. Appreciate that you take the initiative to compose this letter. You express the thought, concern and prayers of multitude of Malaysians including those from Sabah and Sarawak who aspire to build a better Malaysia for the present & future generation.

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aishah
22/4/2015 09:05:22 pm

Alvin,
I watched ur video. Ur intention of mockering the azan has actually bring u closer to know Islam. U utter the words ' Allahu akbar' Allah is Great.. and other words as well..u make an effort to memorise the azan which is good. Get to know Islam. Islam is not only meant for the Malays in Malaysia..

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syarafah
24/4/2015 08:20:41 am

I pray that Allah open Alvin's heart to embrace Islam. Amin.

Leslie T
24/4/2015 11:04:08 am

Aishah, I am a Chinese Christian but I find Alvin Tan's action uncalled for and dispecable.. ! I too believe firmly in Freedom of Action and Speech, but this does not include allowing one to criticise other's religion in such a crude disgraceful manner..! No..I don't support his view, nor condone it..!

mohamad fadzil hitam
23/4/2015 12:51:51 am

Dear James Lau,I am in agreement with you that Dr Sherman has correctly expressed the real feelings of sound minded Malaysian in general.I don't Alvin will be well received in USA itself with the kind of attitude he potrays.To me he is just inviting trouble and danger for himself and his family if he continues to be abusive as such to a religion embraced by billions the world over.Let us all be moderate and live in peace and harmony.

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Chandran Sukumaran
23/4/2015 02:45:09 am

Alwin's rendition of the Azan may be appreciated by American Muslims who understand soul music.

Zukeri link
24/4/2015 05:41:22 pm

If the Chinese guy tries to humiliate Islam with his abusive acts, I think muslims have all the rights to separate his head from his body.

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Siew
22/4/2015 09:23:48 am

Congratulations Sherman, you have given Alvin exactly what he wants. A response.

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Joan Ismail
22/4/2015 08:22:27 pm

Does he understand what u trging to say bro as he had done this over n over again like a brain less person despite his passport being revoke

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Ian
24/4/2015 06:54:09 am

It was a response, but not one aimed solely to challenge the evil which was done, but also to encourage and speak for those who are disgusted with the act. I'm sure all like-minded Malaysians will feel better that Sherman has put in words our feelings which we may not have been able to express as succinctly. I personally don't care if Alvin reads this or not, but sincerely hope that all Malaysians do.

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geraldine casey
22/4/2015 10:27:49 am

Deacon, I totally agree with u. I was unable to expressed my disgust of his action in well though written by you.

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jacob mathew
23/4/2015 04:02:27 pm

I hope that he is NOT a Christian. This is not taught or preached in Christianity. Christ is love not sowing seeds of anger and hatred. If he repeats this again, make sure he gets the proper punishment. To all Muslims, so sorry that there is a jerk and moron amongst the human race. God bless us all.

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Kian
24/4/2015 04:41:34 am

Christianity is a good and peaceful religion. Christianity teaches you that it's right for you to sacrifice your son because God commanded so, Christianity teaches you to believe in things that can't be proven, Christianity teaches you to believe in miracles that are supposedly revealed to only a small handful of people and still expect everyone else to believe without evidence. Christianity teaches you to believe in the story of Noah and the ark even though it's proven that it impossible to fit everything, everyone in there for a year. Christianity teaches you that the world is only 6000 years old.

Yes, Christianity is love...and mostly importantly stupidity. See, I'm not even insulting. I'm just speaking facts. =)

friends of nature
24/4/2015 08:43:21 am

Dear all,

I think Mr. Alvin has fallen in love with Allah, why the way he calls out to him when he sings. We should allow him to call Allah more. Dr sherman one fine day all of us will find him in the Holy Land. I am glad he did the singing well. Alvin please call for him you are his umat.

What ever religion Alvin is holding, don't worry Allah will not punish him, Alvin, some how will be with him.

Azimah Rahim
22/4/2015 10:48:36 am

Thank you, Dr Sherman Kuek, from the bottom of my heart.

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Mariam Jalil link
23/4/2015 01:26:34 am

And so do I. For the sake of our 😍 to our Fellow Malaysians in keeping the Muhibbah Spirits.

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Mariam Jalil link
23/4/2015 01:28:35 am

And so do I. For the sake of our 😍 on upkeeping our Muhibbah Spirits.

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Julie Papu
22/4/2015 11:14:54 am

So well written. Thankyou dr. Sherman. I pray that Alvin will find at least a shred of conscience in him and realise what injustice he has done to his parents by his actions.

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Kian
22/4/2015 11:19:32 am

Dear Dr. Sherman,

It's very nice of you to respond politely to what most people would consider as an "offensive" gesture towards a certain religion.

However, I don't quite agree with some of your concerns and views. Alvin, as I would suspect, is an atheist just like me. As atheist, God doesn't exist and therefore no respect needs to be given to what we deem and consider as fiction. Respect is given at our own discretion.

So in essence, he's not really offending anything that is of any significance, and remember, he's just simply making a musical rendition, nothing more. I think people ought to pay less attention to what most people consider as the offending element and focus on having religious people to be less sensitive.

I'll be bold enough to say this: If your/anyone's God is so powerful and almighty, omnipotent and omniscient, do you think he really cares about such pittance? If religious people are so easily offended, that means they are simply overly sensitive and weak.

Another point I would like to make is this: Respect must be earned, not given by default or by force. You can't expect us to deliver the kind of respect you expect of us just because it needs it. To us atheist, God is a fictional figure no different from Batman or Superman. We have every right to do anything that we please as long as it is within the boundaries of the law, and Alvin did just that.

What you need to be focusing on is not on Alvin, but the people on the receiving end. Educate your fellow religious brethren to be less sensitive and ignore it if they have to. No one is forcing anyone to watch that video, therefore you can't say that Alvin has purportedly offended anyone by intent.

Abrahamic religionist like to promote the term "Free Will" as given by God and whatever the consequence of our actions is due to our own doing right? So in that respect, those who were offended had chose to be offended when they decided to watch that video out of "free will". The blame should be placed on the viewers themselves.

Thanks you and have a nice day.



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Sam Erdiasamy link
22/4/2015 11:45:57 am

Well written .What Alvin did is totally WRONG.Sure he is not a Catholic though he has a cross tattoo on his chest

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SamSmith
22/4/2015 02:28:43 pm

that cross does not represent Christianity. It's just a fashion statement.

J
22/4/2015 03:08:17 pm

Sam, unfortunately that is a gross misrepresentation of a cross. It is in fact, a Nazi iron cross with a nazi swastika logo tattooed on his chest.

Mr Lusec
22/4/2015 01:25:22 pm

In response to "Kian",

"The blame should be placed on the viewers themselves" - I quite disagree with you. We are not living in a world with Atheist per se -- that's the fact -- people with different level of understanding and emotional reactions etc. We, as opposed to Atheist, believe that religious institution "a sacred one", and should be not be smeared with such conduct. So, is the blame to be placed upon us should we respond to what Alvin did?

In addition, you feel that "religious people should be less sensitive", well I think this stance is quite baseless. If the act in question is condoned, then what is the purpose of religious people being the representative of the religion? When someone throws shit to your face, I bet you would, at least, man up and speak up.

Being religious does not necessarily mean "to be less sensitive" or "passive", it includes (among others) being able to react to any "abusive assault (the term wonderfully used by Dr Sherman)" and educate people about respect towards others (the public, AND Alvin).

P/S :
It is not "just a musical rendition, and nothing more". It is a "musical rendition" of a call to prayers -- and it is an utter disrespect and is not a plain "nothing more".

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me
23/4/2015 12:47:03 am

Well said..

wkiong
23/4/2015 02:54:38 am

Alvin does not think n feel along with you n most. He does not care because he has chosen to offend.

Getting angry hurts, why then. I am more offended by the many national financial fiasco n the many attempts by the govt yo curtail our freedom of choice than Alvin's call to azan.

Herb
23/4/2015 03:26:37 am

In response to "Mr.Lusec",

"The blame should be placed on the viewers themselves" - I quite disagree with you. We are not living in a world with Atheist per se -- that's the fact -- people with different level of understanding and emotional reactions etc. We, as opposed to Atheist, believe that DORAEMON institution "a sacred one", and should be not be smeared with such conduct. So, is the blame to be placed upon us should we respond to what Alvin did?

In addition, you feel that "DORAEMON FANS should be less sensitive", well I think this stance is quite baseless. If the act in question is condoned, then what is the purpose of COSPLAYERS/FANS being the representative of the religion? When someone throws shit to your face, I bet you would, at least, man up and speak up.

Being A HARDCORE FAN does not necessarily mean "to be less sensitive" or "passive", it includes (among others) being able to react to any "abusive assault (the term wonderfully used by Dr Sherman)" and educate people about respect towards DORAEMON (the public, AND Alvin).

P/S :
It is not "just a musical rendition, and nothing more". It is a "musical rendition" of a THEME SONG -- and it is an utter disrespect and is not a plain "nothing more".

ryn
23/4/2015 04:47:53 am

well said

Kian
23/4/2015 06:02:46 am

Firstly, you and I have completely different stances. You are probably a theist and I'm an Atheist. What you consider sacred to us is nothing more than man-made fiction. So do not have me live by your standards. No one forced these emotionally affected people to watch that video. They chose it out of their "free will" to watch it and be offended.

Don't theist like to say this "God didn't send people to hell, people send themselves in due to their free will to disbelief"? I'm just applying the same logic back to theist.

Well, if religious people can't be less sensitive then they'll just have to live with it. There's no way around it. We live in a very hostile world these days and if you can't handle such small problems, your chances of survival has just decreased.

Again, like I said, atheist do not owe any respect to religions as they are no more than a fictional character like batman or superman. We criticise religion just like we do Christian Bale's performance in Batman. You don't dictate how respect function within us, we do it based on our own belief system. The world doesn't revolve around your belief in God - Which to us, doesn't exist.

P/S: You don't think it's just a musical rendition. I do. You think it's an utter disrespect. I don't. You see, it's never about right or wrong. It's all about perspectives. To me, as long as he's not breaking the law of the land he's in, there's nothing wrong about it.

cojack
24/4/2015 03:04:03 am

am totally agreed with you Mr Lusec

madison
24/4/2015 08:45:39 am

I agree with u mr.lusec..

aha
22/4/2015 01:26:05 pm

why is it so typical of an atheist to respond like this? You're saying so many needles things. He had disregard for other people's faith and it is him being rude and it is his fault. I'm an atheist to and all I can say is that your morals are all over the place. Twat would be an ideal word.

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Doreen Robson
22/4/2015 02:45:26 pm

aha...thank you. To kian
True even if one does not believe in God...at least have some morals. You
mean if you have no faith means you
have a right to be rude..immoral and disrespectful.

respect lah
23/4/2015 11:05:23 am

Kian and Alvin

We the believers never mock ur belief of non existence of god. WHY? Because in our religion we are thought to respect people disregard their religion and belief.. respect is earn,like u said.agreed!but why u cant walk the talk?ask ppl respect but dunno how to give one?unbelievable..

Kian
23/4/2015 12:48:26 pm

@aha: Moral or not, needless or not. It's not your say. Its mine.

@Respect lah: I don't need religion to teach me about respect. However, U are confusing me with Alvin. He was the one that did the video. Not me. Im merely supporting his freedom of expression and his disdain towards the religious institution. Maybe read harder and think clearer before u speak?

Harry
22/4/2015 02:20:41 pm

Agree. Well said. It's jus a different perspective.

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orakash
23/4/2015 04:52:39 pm

Kian,

If I call your mother a whore you like ah?

Its my perspective. And u didn't earn my respect. Your mother also didnt earn my respect!

Bodoh!

Kian
24/4/2015 04:45:34 am

@orakash you're just making yourself sound exceptionally stupid. Religions are everywhere and is affecting people's life whether they are believers or not, and therefore I can rightfully make my decision whether to respect of disrespect it. My mother on the other hand has not revealed herself to you, therefore your claim does not stand.

Please don't make yourself look stupid like this. Think before you speak. Your words only show how unintelligent you are. =)

facepalm
22/4/2015 02:35:42 pm

Dear Kian,

Expecting religious people to be "less sensitive" to religious assaults? Seriously?

Do you expect vegans to be "less sensitive" about killing and eating animals?

Do you expect dog lovers to be "less sensitive" about people killing dogs and ripping their skins for business purposes?

Do you expect yourself to be "less sensitive" about people abusing your parents or molesting your family?

True, respect is earned. But the world doesn't even want respect from people like alvin and you, when you guys don't seem to even respect yourselves. You don't respect whatever intelligence you supposedly have. You disrespect yourselves by behaving or speaking ridiculously to the point that people are wondering what ignorance possessed you and where your brains have gone to.

Be careful. An atheist you may be, but even people who don't believe in divine existence know what goes around comes around.

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Pat Lu
22/4/2015 05:40:53 pm

Well said FacePalm. How I wish there's a "like" button for this comment!

Diana
23/4/2015 12:48:16 am

Very true indeed.

Kian
23/4/2015 06:12:54 am

Dear Facepalm,

I understand your concerns completely,

I'm going to use the same logic you have presented against you:

Have religious people been understanding towards the vegetarian/vegan community when they practice the slaughtering of animals?

Have religious people been understanding and respectful when they pollute the air with sounds of prayers that have nothing to do with Atheist therefore disrupting our way of life?

Have religious people been understanding and kind to non believers when they have their god damned cars parked right out to the middle of the roads during time of worship?

Have religious people been understanding to the atheist community by not spreading their false word of god to our children, corrupting their minds and making them believe in a make-believe heaven that can't even be proven.

Before I answer you, you have a lot more answering to do. The usual response to us atheist is: "If we don't like it here, leave and go somwhere else". So, I'm merely doing the same.

I agree that what goes around comes around. Problem is, you see Alvin's move as an insult, I don't. Don't have me live by your standards.

Getsby
23/4/2015 08:36:42 am

<<Kian, In spite of our differentiating points on the argument, I approve your reply. All the other replies say something, but NONE OF THEM has challenged the validity of the claim that has been brought. Kudos to you maintaining a steady hand despite these 'hit-and-run- posts.

ikhmal
24/4/2015 05:23:56 am

wow just wow, good comments.

MHZ
22/4/2015 02:39:30 pm

For a bunch of people who don't believe in God, smug atheists (as opposed to plain ol' don't kacau other people atheists) spends a lot of time and effort to put God down.

I seriously don't mind atheists - but these annoying ones, man... I don't know how they think being an ass helps their cause.

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memummy
23/4/2015 04:30:23 am

Cant agree more ... dun believe God exist, dats fine .. to bring another religion down n being such insult .. dats low, bro ... low

Habibul Amani
22/4/2015 03:02:18 pm

So atheist "do not have to show respect". Pls define that statement, does it mean "must be rude"?

I thought if you have nothing nice to say, a respectful person who values good manners and peace can always choose to be silent.

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Kian
23/4/2015 06:15:26 am

Respect is not determined by you. Some certain religion have shown no respect to the vegan/vegetarian community when they still practice the slaughtering of cows as a holy ritual. How about that?

Wak
22/4/2015 03:11:42 pm

Dude, your an atheist. Yeah thats fine. But do know that you live in a country that have a system and that particular system is guided by the federal constitution. And that kind of insulting act is clearly wrong based on this written law made by human. You said respect has to be earned, what made you think that you deserve any respect from anyone if you yourself does not respect the system

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Iwin
22/4/2015 04:04:29 pm

agreed with u wak, tq.

Iskandar
22/4/2015 03:12:22 pm

Dear Kian,
I don't give a damn about you being an atheist. U can think or assume anything as much as u want. No limit. But as long as u keep to yourself or talk among your atheist friend.
Your friend here (alvin),purposely insulting others belief. U don't have any faith in god,it just fine with me. But why must this 'monkey' did this? And since u are also at his side, i may also address u as 'monkey'.
Respect to be earned,right? Since u don't deserve it,only then i call u monkey. The way u express your thoughts seems like u are invicible and not subject to any law. If u think so, i dare u to bring alvin and other atheist friends to 'perform this show' live in public, or even better, at national mosque during peak hour instead of cowardly make a video and posted on the internet.

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Brain_disrupter
22/4/2015 06:10:23 pm

If atheists are to keep to ourselves and talk only among atheist friends, why is it that religious propaganda are being shown on TV?

Kian
23/4/2015 06:18:35 am

Dear Iskandar,

I don't give a damn about you being a theist. U can think or assume anything as much as you want. But as long as you keep to yourself or talk among your theist friend and not go around spreading your religion and hurting atheist feelings. How about that?

hello
24/4/2015 02:03:51 am

Hi don't think u can say he is coward. I think he is very brave bcos he knoWS he can easily be targeted by retaliation.

Gabriel
22/4/2015 04:15:53 pm

You do not speak for all atheist, fuck tard. By the way, respect has been earned, muslims or the religious are people....they are individuals who think, who bleeds, who exist. Does that in itself not merit some consideration, some respect? Don't assume to represent the whole group, when your opinion is really, just your opinion. And no "Alvin didn't do just that". there are laws prohibiting religious harassment and ridicule.

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Kian
23/4/2015 06:19:46 am

Thanks for calling me names. By the way, you don't get to determine if respect has been earned or not.

Just like your face
22/4/2015 04:23:47 pm

Kian, you as an atheist, you mock us Atheist a lot. The other religion were already not disturbing us, and now you're saying it's okay for Atheist to mock other religion because we don't believe in one? You just ridicule yourself a lot.

Probably you should learn what Atheist is all about before opening your opinion which just spells disaster and stupidity. As much as an Atheist some of us are, we do not condone to mocking others. Would you like it if I mock your siblings and tell you "I don't have any connection or even belief in your siblings, therefore, I do not see it as an offense to embarrass them/mock them".

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Getsby
23/4/2015 08:42:55 am

In the same way atheists are passively condemned into the pits of hell, deemed 'khafir,' or ostracised into being deviants by ALL abrahamic religions(Christian denominations & Islam), do you, "Just like your face" not consider this treatment to be mockery?

If we reversed the current status quo of religion and atheists in the world, can you as a definite say you'd be treated in the same manner your were before? How do you intrepret a non-religious kid growing up being told he's going to hell for a way of belief he's had his entire life?

Meor
22/4/2015 04:36:13 pm

............. You will find the people most affectionate to those who have iman are those who say, ‘We are Christians.’ That is because some of them are priests and monks and because they are not arrogant. (Surat al-Ma'ida, 82)

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Rosli Pakngah
22/4/2015 04:37:13 pm

Assalam mualaikum to all my muslim bros and sis and Hi Kian and everyone who are non muslims. I strongly think Alvin Tan is trying to convert himself to be a muslim coz he is very interested to recite the muslim's prayer call. So.... thank you Alvin Tan on your effort but please approach us muslims and learn on how to be converted to Islam. Thank you Kian for highlighting this. Maybe you would also want to be converted to Islam. Thank you.

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Pak Reec
22/4/2015 06:56:32 pm

Pak Ngah...I have this feeling that Alvin is already a Muslim.He uttered the Syahadah there rite? Maybe im wrong but thats what I think laa...

Adim
23/4/2015 10:52:01 am

Suruh Alvin belajar pakai seluar dan baju dulu, Pak Rosli. Baru ngam belajar pasal Islam

meor
22/4/2015 04:42:48 pm

you will find those who said religion is a myth to be among the atheist they call religious people as intolerant and crazy but wait until you condemn evolutionism they'll become crazy about it and not willing to compromize..i just tweet about how the malaysian government should stop teaching students about evolutionism and all of a sudden the evolutionist started bombarding me with their convictions in which it still remain as a theory instead of fact.

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Marcud
23/4/2015 12:42:48 am

Actually it is kinda more or less proven. Don't get me wrong I have a religion too but let's not get confused between reliogionband science. One is based on logic and rationality while the other on personal faith. Hell o would be pissed to if gomen took away theory of evolution from the books.

Roger
22/4/2015 05:13:17 pm

Great Writing Kian, "respect has to be earned"

This guy needs to mix around with people in order to know people. Here I meant REAL PEOPLE and not his followers or listeners.

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Zikri
22/4/2015 06:23:14 pm

Atheist or not if your living with or around another human being you have got to learn to respect each orher and co-exist. If someone came up to you and make fun of your mother or your wife you will be furious about it let alone making fun of someone elses believes.

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Kian
24/4/2015 08:59:47 am

True. But the problem is that you don't realise that religion has been going around offending and disrespecting me on a daily basis.

Religions routinely slaughter animals which I love as their holy rituals, have their cars parked out to the middle of the road during prayer times and noisy call to prayers that affects my sleeping schedule. So how about the religion respect me first before I return the favour?

Respect needs to be both ways right? If you think about it, religion never really practices what it preaches.

Amoxi
22/4/2015 06:54:10 pm

Dear Mr. Kian,
I respect your perspective. But answer me only this question. Why did Mr. Alvin had to do this video at the first place.

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Rose
22/4/2015 07:12:07 pm

In respond to Kian,

Respect, in its highest term means to allow things just be. If you cannot give respect, which means 'incapable to allow things just be', why respond to it with mockery and insult? This I believe have nothing to do with one being an atheist. Such act from Alvin and perception as you stated above is simply a reflection of one state of awareness. Which state are you?

The responds people gave to Alvin is the effects from the cause created by Alvin. He probably threw the stone with an intention to insult God and all the believers. The effects are the same insult he would get. You, on the other hand, just another effects from the insult. If you read all the comments from others to you, maybe you would know that you just created another chain of insult. This is a law of cause and effects created by God (or whatever you belief in)so everything in the universe move by His laws.

So 'the blame should be placed on the viewers' are not doing anything good here. Whoever watch the video have two choices, to react to the insult and be part of the effects or to forgive. Dr. Sherman's action through his open letter have reduced the effects of insult to the entire situation including (indirectly) to Alvin. His action could create a chain of forgiveness indirectly in others. Don't you see that?

My question to you is, why prolonged the insult? Perhaps you should connect to Alvin and tell him, "be a good atheist (if he is an atheist) and not the idiot ones". And that advise is for you too.

To Dr Sherman,
Thank you for your kindness.

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Getsby
23/4/2015 08:57:42 am

"To allow things to just be" isn't respect, its tolerance. Respect here, if I may contradict you, is the admiration of the make-up, form, character and qualities of the subject. The strength of that respect is gauged by the strengh of the admiration. The more admirable a person's attributes are, the more they are respected. Attributes like fear, authority and character.

As to your other two points, there is MORE than just two choices. Do not narrow yourself to the other varriables at play. For one, consider the Alvin's intention in the knowledge of the effect this video would bring. To antagonize people? To start religious hatred? If the world is based on a law of cause and effect, you simply have resigned yourself to the fate of reacting to Alvin's actions.

In the grand scheme of all things, doesn't that make you a puppet acting in exactly the way Alvin wants you to? Perhaps he might want to bolster his strength on political asylum in the US. For all that you hate and disagree, aren't you HELPING HIM?

minimoe
22/4/2015 07:37:10 pm

@Kian

I couldn't agree more with you. Respect is truly earned and not given by force nor bound by what others think as acceptable or otherwise.

Well crafted and presented.

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hello
24/4/2015 02:15:49 am

I think I m beginning to see Kian's point. By using example such as shouldn't vegans feel insulted by Hindus eating meat he is using an analogy. Like cars parked on a Friday situation he is not saying he is offended,but rather pointing to the fact that if we choose to feel offended,there's a million n one things we can be offended. Just my thots n I m Christian.

KC Chew
22/4/2015 09:46:55 pm

I am an atheist myself but even I don't agree with Kian. Saying The blame should be placed on the viewers themselves is akin to saying that if somebody throws an insult at you or your family, all you need to do is ignore it and everything will be OK. If you close your ears to the insults, then you would not be offended.
As you mentioned, respect must be earned and you need to respect other peoples religion if you expect the same from them.

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Getsby
23/4/2015 09:19:22 am

As one atheist to another, we both know everyone considers themself moderate until they're challenged. In light of the mob mentality of society, I'd say your comparison of throwing an insult to family or self is not on the same scale at all. I don't really agree with all the points Kian has raised, but if you think about it, hasn't your tolerance to all the bits religion that have affected you in life QUALIFY to closing your own ears? When a religion runs the presupposition that YOU, KC Chew, is a heathen/khafir who is going to hell? Do you respect or TOLERATE that?

Atheists are by semantics, INCAPABLE of respecting the core of religion. The idea of respect(please engage me on this point if you disagree) is that respect comes from the admiration of its quality, characteristics, form and effect. Atheists who not believe are incapable of comphrehending these points in way that they see are truthful and authentic, since you do not believe to begin with.

You may respect your religious friend or stranger in the basic courtesy owed to them, BUT you TOLERATE their religion, in the same way they tolerate yours.

Yeah right
24/4/2015 01:00:40 pm

Dear Getsby,
You call yourself as atheist...but seeing you using CAPITAL LETTERS to emphasize your feelings...why do you feel offended about heathen/khafir being condemn to hell when you believe that there is no God, heaven and hell? To me just ignore the preach since the places called heaven and hell are like Asgard with Thor as the future king and his sleazy brother try to overtake the throne. Why feel offended? God is fictional right? like Batman and Superman so why bother with heathen/khafir be condemn to hell preach?

happy
23/4/2015 12:16:19 am

Dear Kian. True indeed about the atheist things and yes, about the atheist can expressed their ideology of Godless, can do whatever they want inside the boundaries are totally relevant. But the irrelevant things are, why do you and Alvin were being such arrogant? Can simply disrespect others faith? If I don't believe in atheism, can I just insult the atheists? Even, if you don't care, our religion told us to be respectful to others, care about others feeling. This is where religion works. Religion give you guidance about what is right and what is wrong. Even us cannot understand fully about how our body function. Before this, there are no scientific explanation about the bad effects of being alcoholic, doing open sex, gambling, stealing etc, but religion already mentioned about it thousands years ago. I have lots of things to tell you but in short stop saying that if you don't believe in something, you have the license to disrespect others who believe it and lastly, having faith in religion will not make you weak, it will make you strong, give you hope, guidance and spirit to live out the best life in this world. Anyway, you can do more research on how even some top professor left their atheism and embrace a religion. I understand for you not to believe in religion maybe because you're still not see the right one. Try to do deep study on Islam. I'm sure you'll find the most logical religion that will suit your mind. Highly recommended. Bye

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Jet
23/4/2015 01:00:35 am

If you got slapped and you react out of anger, then it is your fault coz you are too sensitive and weak.

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Mia
23/4/2015 01:44:37 am

Atheist or not, we are all taught to have manners. Honestly, there are so many other things to sing, but why choose something that is specifically related to someone's religion?

I do agree that religious people should be less sensitive, but if people like Alvin keep on doing this, should we really just lay back and take it positively? We are not being sensitive; we are just trying to protect something that is sacred to us.

We all have our beliefs. Respect is part of manners. If you don't have manners, no wonder you can't respect people.

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Thomas
23/4/2015 02:19:17 am

yes, you are just as low moral as Alvin.
you don't need to respect other people's God, but you need to respect what peoples believe.

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SYed
23/4/2015 02:35:06 am

Keeping my comment short for you so that it's clear and precise;
You and Alvin are assholes...no matter what the reason is (religion or anything else) offending other is stupid and unacceptable.

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wkiong
23/4/2015 02:46:51 am

You were just as eloquent with your response. I am not an atheist, I believe in the ever expanding creative intelligence called GOD but i don't believe in religion even if I accept that many people need it to feel safe.

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linda
23/4/2015 03:24:50 am

Kian,

Whatever your view to people of religion, or the religion itself, doesn't justify you to being rude to those who holds such beliefs. Even though you see such act is merely self-expression and nothing more, please bear in mind and use your common sense and accept that people have different kind of sensitivity. You don't see things the way we see things, and we don't see things the way you do, so does that mean we can ridicule each other? RESPECT is the key. You want to in-doctrine your atheist believe, come forward with proof, evidence, but not mockery.

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waliauyeh
23/4/2015 03:54:00 am

You are totally right about your view, kian, but if what you do results in someone else to be upset and that makes you happy? I don't see how you are making the world a better place.

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IAmAnAnimator.
23/4/2015 04:14:18 am

"To us atheist, God is a fictional figure no different from Batman or Superman" My that sounds like joke in putting God's name in the line of fictional superheroes from comic books and movies lol. Pretty much of an oxymoron's comment that is.
I am Buddhist but that statement seem blatantly uttered out. You may be an Atheist and not believe in God but the least you could do is show consideration for others. Peace!

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BCP
23/4/2015 04:25:45 am

Why don't you suggest to alvin tan to make some musical rendition from some jewish holy prayers and let see how the people in the US take it.

And yes, our God are the most Powerful and Almighty and thus He instructed for us people to be sensitive of this kind of things. If something small of this scale isn't taking care of, how do you expect people to respect other bigger issues?

Simple examples :

People say, when we are in love with someone,what important is actually those small effort such a simple kiss everyday, simple hug, everyday cleanliness, helping opening a door of a car, etc. All these small positive deeds are important. However, the most crucial part is the bigger responsibilites of family financial well being, raising up the children, medical related issues etc.

Second example : in managing personal financial, it is important to monitor our expenses & it is actually vital to monitor all those small expenses (that cup of coffee, snacks here and there, those donuts and sweets, newspaper, etc) which eventually made significant portion of our expenses. And from this, we can make significant changes to our overall saving / expenses / budget by carefully managing these small expenses.

But, in this alvin case of azan, you are saying this is a small issue, The Almighty God doesn't even care and these religious people are overly sensitive.

Why the double standard when it come to religion?

That's outright hiprocrite and irresponsible.

You sir should be ashame of yourself. Period.

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Canon
23/4/2015 06:35:37 am

Simple words to describe you, Kian:

1) arrogant
2) ignorant
3) narrow-minded

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Isa
24/4/2015 03:13:09 am

I agree with you!

Danny Quest
23/4/2015 07:57:58 am

If God truly does not exist to you, then your comment means nothing. Think about it, deeply. By giving a comment here you are doing nothing except expressing whats on your mind. You've helped no one, not even yourself.
Just because you're an atheist does not mean your're an intellect.
It is obvious that this Alvin guy is hating on Malaysians, and here he's expressing it to the muslims by mocking them. Everybody can see that as long as they know who he is.
I do agree with some of your points where respect has to be be earned. But it kinda depends on who you're trying to impress and get respect from. I'm very sure the terrorist leader earned his respect from his followers but that doesn't mean he's right. Just so that you know, there's no such thing as free-will. We're all tied to something... one way or another...

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ngtitao
23/4/2015 10:48:39 am

I do not know what you are smoking, but being an atheist doesn't mean you should go around showing disrespect to other religions. It is wholly contradicting that while you demand respect is earned, do you start by showing disrespect until it is earned? Then, should anyone meeting you first time should start insulting you, your parents or what not that concerns you, until you show what you are made of, and whether it meets the aggressor standard that you've earn the respect? Without believing in god, one should still know showing little respect to anyone is a courtesy itself, unless you admit apart from being an atheist, you are also a selfish dude who do what you please without regards for law. I can understand if one is totally illiterate and brought up in the jungle, but clearly you shouldn't be one, aren't you?

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Andytan
23/4/2015 11:57:47 am

Will you be offended if I post in social media Kian's (or whatever your name is) father is a stupid idiot that brought up his child to be a useless scum of society just like Alvin? If you feel offended by that and feel like reacting then you understand that even as an athiest, you do not deserve the rights to insult or do anything that you think is right because you do not live in an Island. We live in a society that is made up of different individuals and if you are unhappy with that, please find yourself an island and make friends with the coconuts that don't care if you sing the coconut song without wearing pants.

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Andy
23/4/2015 12:08:40 pm

Will you get offended if i said in social media that your father is a total idiot useless human being for raising a dimwit, real scum of society? If you feel offended by that then you understand that even as an athiest, you are living in a society that is made up of different individual and you simply cannot do whatever you like. If you want to do what you like, you can go live in an island and make friends with the coconuts that will not be offended by you singing the coconut song without wearing any pants.

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Canon
23/4/2015 12:39:50 pm

Kian, you are:

1) arrogant
2) ignorant
3) narrow-minded

Fuck you.

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Muslim
23/4/2015 03:56:15 pm

Dear Kian,

Sorry but I think most of your points based solely on your own assumptions. I do believe all religions in this world have something they share in common especially to have a better & meaningful life.
Hence, you can always the answer of your assumption in any religions.

May your Batman & Superman bless you

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Kian
24/4/2015 04:53:04 am

Dear Muslim,

Sorry but I TOO think your assumptions on me are based also solely on your own assumptions. There really isn't anything that is absolute in this world if you think about it. It mostly just a group of bearded old men deciding what society should adhere to. It doesn't mean its right, it's just what's decided upon.

You believe in religion being the good, I believe all religions have brought more bad than good. Thats my perspective and also my assumption.

May you wake up from the fairy tale that is religion. =)

steve
24/4/2015 01:25:41 am

Kian,

Enough of your silly excuses for Alvin Tan. Clearly it was RACIST!

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Kian
24/4/2015 04:53:45 am

Please, either educate yourself or stop making yourself look stupid. Religion isn't a race. Get over it.

J.O
24/4/2015 05:20:41 am

Dear Kian,
Its just fair you made your own contributions but I also like to point out one thing I think doesn't not add up in the atheistic ideology you just prolificly write about. I do agree with you though that its a sign of weakness to be unecessarily sensitive when someone have chosen to watch a video out of his/her free will then condemning someone's free will of putting up the vedio in the first place. However, if the idea of doing anything one like must hold it must hold across board. If any one choose to slap you/rob or kill you out of his/her free will i am sure you would apply another principle or ideology. If on the basis on my feelings I can kill or do whatever I like you can then imagine the kind of society we would have. Therefore, my point is that the full outworking of real atheism tend to lead to destructions. It tend to take away with one hand the freedom they offer with another hand. I hope you can rethink your position. Thank you

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Kian
24/4/2015 07:04:28 am

Dear J.O,

Yes, anyone is free to do anything and everything they please as long as they are ready to face the consequences, whether good or bad.

You are totally free to rob and kill me if you wish, ONLY if you are ready to face the consequences of the law. That's why mankind came up with laws to govern society, not God.

Atheism simply means the disbelief in the existence of GOD. It's as simple as that. It's not a religion, not a movement. None. However, some atheist do take a passion in debunking and tearing down the fabric of religion because it is detrimental to the human race - If religionist see it as disrespect, then so be it.

I still hold on to my words that everyone gets to do whatever they want, but at a price and a consequence.

Religions mock me on a daily basis. They sacrifice animals for ritual,s they ring awfully terrible sounding bells and call to prayers, they park their cars right out to the middle of the roads for worship, they spread fairy tale stories that can't be proven etc.. You want to help me out on this? I never once protested, blown myself up or make a fuss. I could have if I wanted to.

Based on your logic, there are certain things that we are not allowed to do - which i would assume disrespecting religions is a part of it? The problem is that there are some of us in society that thinks religion is a cancer that needs to be eradicated therefore standing idly by is not the way forward.

If religions are not allowed to be disrespected, then religions should be disallowed to proselytise. It mocks me that religions get their way in spreading what I deem as fairy tale nonsense.

I don't see it necessary to rethink my position, maybe you should - since you lack the basic understanding of my earlier points.

Elbarto
24/4/2015 06:58:29 am

@Kian,

I don't give a hoot if you or Alvin are atheist. This isn't about religion (or lack thereof).

This is about respecting other people.

Let's put it this way. If I said that your mother is a harlot, publicly, would you not be upset with me? If I told you to be less sensitive about people insulting your mother, would you not be even more upset?

The point isn't whether or not you believe in God, or whether or not I believe your mother is a harlot. The point is, just because you believe in something, doesn't mean you can go abusing others who don't. As humans, our actions are not just governed by what is legally wrong or right. There is also human decency.

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jd
24/4/2015 03:42:25 pm

Kian,
Before i mention my two cents worth, please note that whatever is mentioned is not aimed at yourself or your beliefs. It is for the mental identity that we as a society have come to believe.

Beginning with your point of musical rendition. I would like to point that as well as it may be musical rendition, it is noted that offence will be given irregardless of the direction taken. Given the examples of Miley cyrus who's music rendition has offended many and the likes of metal music has a stigma that it will offend many; to call it sensitivity of the viewers would be a naive thing to say.

I would also like to touch on your submission of "Free will" within the constraints of the law. Each great nation from the developed the likes of United States and England to the developing nations of Malaysia, and Thailand, each nations has indicated that it's people have a freedom of speech and expression. However the arm of the law also respects each religion (Atheism included) where one is not to offend another religion. (feel free to correct me if i am mistaken) This notion of respect is embedded in each nations constitution (given or birth rights of each citizen) As Alvin is currently in the United States, the first amendment rights allows for him to disclose full freedom of speech with no limitations, thus we forget the constitutional rights yet we as non American recall the first amendment rights which would not apply in any other country but the United States.

This brings me to my submission of respect. It is true that one would have to earn respect and i would agree that in today's society, it is harder to earn respect than it is to give opinions. However we as a society has long forgotten that the notion of respect also originates from the idea that in order to earn respect, one would first have to give respect.

With today's anonymity of the internet, the fine line of offensive and not is blurred and the views of each social group will find a particular item of interest offensive.

I personally respect your values and opinion in this regard, however i believe that instead of pointing fingers at a particular religious group or groups of people, i believe we as society, the people of this earth should take a portion of the blame for either taking offence to the materials or allowing it to affect us in a way or form and to all work as one to foster a generation of hate-less, united global community irregardless of nationality, race, culture, religion or political beliefs.

So people of the internet, ask yourself this.
Don't you want for each generation to come after you to live in a more harmonious world with a better life in comparison to what we have to bear through? or are we all such sadist and wish for nothing but misery to those who will succeed your name?

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So edgy
25/4/2015 03:12:45 pm

So edgy, Mr. Kian. Do you also feel euphoric, disgusted with the unenlightened masses, wears fedoras and says m'lady a lot?

So much cringe induced.

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Yao
25/4/2015 03:17:53 pm

Dear Kian,

I couldn't agree more with your points.

For those who cares,

I think there are gems in Kian's words, and it is not useless. Everyone, both theist and no atheist, can learn something through this event and make our society better.

Some contexts before I share my view:
1) I do not agree to Alvin's intention on creating the tensions.
2) I do not believe in any religions.
3) I hope that the world will be better and better, and hopefully one day we can have peace.

In my opinion, we can feel insulted by anything, but we can also choose not to feel insulted. Like Kian mentioned in many of his replies, many of the religions' practices also might somehow make someone else feel insulted. All these things are something that we cannot control. But, if we learn not to be so sensitive about them and not to be feel insulted, the less likely that we will do something that will insult others.

In my opinion, oppressing freedom or speech or stopping people to say things that will cause other people to feel insulted is not right way to solve the problem. Even there is peace in this way, I feels that this peace is a superficial and fragile one, and will be shattered if someone wants to break it. However if majority of the people learned not to be angry about other people's speech, we can have a peace that is backed by a stronger foundation. In addition with mutual respect, then we can have a lasting peace.

If you want to know why Alvin keep on doing all these provocations, this is the reason: he mentioned that he want to educate us on the importance of freedom of speech. He did them on purpose as a devil's advocate.

I, myself, will do my best to respect others. At the same time, I also also learning not to feel insulted by other people speech. Let's improve ourselves and make this world a better one.

Please bear with my bad English. Cheers.

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Saira
28/4/2015 08:09:28 pm

Great words, Yao.

Tracy
22/4/2015 11:26:55 am

Thank you for articulating my thoughts in words.

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Mariamah
22/4/2015 11:40:24 am

Thank you Dr Sherman, I struggled to understand why Alvin did that. I hope I can forgive him.

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Pat Lu link
22/4/2015 06:42:12 pm

Dear Mariamah,

My apologies to you and all of Muslim faith. Alvin Tan does not represent any community of decent human beings in Malaysia.

Here's what innocent Jesus said (before He died hanging on the cross after being whipped and tortured), "Abba Father, FORGIVE them for they know not what they do."

So I said the same prayer for Alvin, "Abba Father, FORGIVE Alvin Tan for he knows not what he does ... and I thank you, Father God, for bringing out the best in our (silent majority) moderate respectful peace-loving Malaysians to speak out and defend each other's beliefs as experienced through this episode and other similar cases. May peace and harmony prevail in our beloved country. Amen."

Lets move on to build a better Malaysia for our children and our children's children together.

Peace be with you and all Malaysians.

With lots of Love and Light.

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maria
23/4/2015 06:20:15 am

Kian. ....the issue is mocking someone you look up to...you love...your idol.....what if someone do the same to your mom....your wife....your family etc...mocking them.....will you then give the same response?
People felt defensive because they can feel the love and not because they are weak.....no matter whether one is a Muslim, Christian, aethist etc......let's see who gets the last laugh! I don't think it will be you or even Alvin.

Maria
24/4/2015 04:59:56 am

@maria

Fine, I agree with your points. Check this out, I'm going to use the same logic against you.

What about me then? I love animals a lot, but a certain religion still sacrifices cows in the open for it's holy ritual. it offends me a lot, what should we do about that?

I get woken up but a certain religion's prayer sounds in the wee hours of the morning, it affects me both emotionally and spiritually. I'm very severely traumatized by it. What should we do about it?

Religions are creeping itself into mainstream media and education material. It offends me a lot as I'm an atheist and I not want my children to be exposed to such fairy tale nonsense. What should be do about it?

Please, don't claim moral high ground just because its YOUR RELIGION, anyone and everyone can get offended by a myriad of things. I haven't yet protested once, blown myself up because I got offended right? Learn to grow up instead. We all have problems.

Jacob
22/4/2015 11:54:32 am

Kian, one day when someone insults you personally you would re-think about what you said.

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Ashley
22/4/2015 12:22:51 pm

Good one!

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Dora
22/4/2015 01:02:19 pm

Agreed!

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rudy
22/4/2015 02:29:37 pm

indeed!

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Fozzy Osmand
22/4/2015 12:09:05 pm

Your small pin surely goes straight in hia heart.

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Suzie
22/4/2015 12:24:52 pm

Thank Mr Sherman. I am glad that there are still person who respect others...all religion taught good things ..only people who always use religion as a tools to cause hatred..

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Leo Antony
22/4/2015 12:49:28 pm

thank you Rev so very much for such a deserving letter that best describes our Malaysian views on that sadistic parody . Needless to say it is a cowardice act . That person needs counseling immediately because if not something Malaysian such idle mind is the devils workshop that will move on to other atrocities even in his choice of migration . The usa will suffer with the likes of this

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ahmad farhan
22/4/2015 12:55:02 pm

Thanks a bunch Dr Sherman. I'm grateful of what u did. Even i'm a muslim ,instead of being hyper reactive (nevertheless of course i'm angry of what he did) but before we do something to him legally, we should understand he has its own cause of action. Then if he is being stubborn or his main goal of doing this and his series of action before are bad, then I without doubt agree for the authority to take action. Regardless of what belief u are in, Islam, Christian, Buddha or atheist, please do no be a complete buffon just to offend somebody. Even if it not one that u respect. We are all pacifist, we do not want any grudge or chaos happen when it should not be. Morally speaking, it is a deceitful thing to do. But i think for Alvin maybe as u said dr sherman, Mr Alvin has same bad experience, or cynical observation towards the world today or maybe grudge towards muslim. It is personal and in accord towards how ones should observe. No hindrance
I ought to say that we should conscious as what morally right or wrong because that the basis of our interaction and it is a primitive consensus since before ,regardless in what religion you are, atheist or monoatheist, polyatheis or what belief you are in

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pomme
22/4/2015 01:09:29 pm

Well written open letter. But then again why bother. He is nothing but an imbecile. A childish fool who thinks he's invincible just because he gets to parade his idiocy from a foreign land. As a Muslim i am not in any way offended by what he did. Why even bother responding. Why even bother stooping down to his level.

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marie
22/4/2015 05:17:11 pm

I think it wasnt 'bother' wht Rev. Sherman did.. it was bcz he cares.. for Alvin.. for all the other people.. for a still-liveable country..

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Sheriaza
22/4/2015 11:18:39 pm

I very much agree with you pomme.

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Getsby
23/4/2015 09:21:48 am

Well you sound pretty offended.

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sashi
22/4/2015 01:30:37 pm

Don't be arrogant by saying I will say whatever I like abt other people's religion since I am an atheist. Dat is stupidity & lack respect to others. Use common sense & learn to respect people's sensitivity.

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Ahmad Syafiq
22/4/2015 01:34:12 pm

Dear Mr Sherman..thank you so much..fron bottom of my heart...

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muslimah
22/4/2015 01:35:25 pm

Terima kasih tuan.

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JCrispin link
22/4/2015 01:35:36 pm

Kian,
Am sorry for people like you. You can choose what to believe or not believe in but do not abuse the beliefs of others...

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Ika
22/4/2015 02:48:50 pm

word!

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ada
22/4/2015 01:41:06 pm

Thank you dr. I feel lke humanity restored when I read ur letter. We need more people like you. Be it muslim,christian,hindu,budhist or any religion we should live in peace. I'm so sad over the matter that happened in oir country over religions issue the past few days. As we progresses yo become a better world, the humanity values deteriorated. What have we become ? Since when we let the politicians issue ruin the harmonity in our life. I love every malaysians so I wish we will all be united and live in harmony.

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MintBerryCrunch link
22/4/2015 01:46:21 pm

The very definition of freedom of expression includes the freedom to insult or offend. For every belief can and will insult someone.

Think of the countries where you can say offensive things (**not hate speech**, but you can make fun of any belief).

Think of the countries where you cannot.

Would you prefer to live in a country whereby no belief system is sacred? Or would you like to live in a country where there are sacred cows everywhere (eg. Malaysia where even a Cross evokes protest).

Freedom of expression and freedom to insult.

Others have the freedom to ignore, but not silence, those who choose to have different views.

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Duhhh
22/4/2015 01:48:09 pm

Agree with Kian, somehow. And perhaps Alvin should have a Disclaimer / Warning before the video starts...sensitive people can choose to not watch it. Peace.

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ibrahim
22/4/2015 01:54:27 pm

Congratulations and thank you Dr.Sherman.. your explanation make me proud to be Malaysian..this is the right way to counter back to a person that know nothing about peace among other religions in Malaysia..keep up a good work!

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WESWM
22/4/2015 01:57:58 pm

Very well written. Thank you Dr Sherman Kuek. Someday of I were to meet you, I will personally thank you for the open letter. Bravo.

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Dr. Patricia Anthony
22/4/2015 02:09:31 pm

Thank you Dr. Sherman. We are utterly outraged by Alvin Tan's video. You wrote what lies within our heart.

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Anna T
22/4/2015 02:20:44 pm

In response to Kian:

Say, I'm an orphan who was abandoned by my parents. So I grew up without them and obviously hold a grudge towards them for leaving me as a child. Does that give me the right to insult everyone else's parents? No. You get my drift.

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rudy bluehikari
22/4/2015 02:30:43 pm

Thank you Dr Sherman.

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Farida
22/4/2015 02:33:50 pm

This Alvin is either mentally ill or simply a coward.

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OSK
22/4/2015 05:27:59 pm

I totally agree with you farida. I have tried to live the best I can with people of all religious faiths and show respect. I should say he is 'biadab'

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Georgina
23/4/2015 01:05:47 pm

he is a major coward & a good for nothing. peace to all religion.

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tony paul link
22/4/2015 02:56:47 pm

Amen dr sherman....

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Mr ron link
22/4/2015 03:07:21 pm

Thanks you Dr.sherman.. We live among people we should respect of each other because what it's means humanity..

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zaid ahmad
22/4/2015 03:12:42 pm

Thank you Sir

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siti
22/4/2015 03:17:44 pm

Forgive him.. For he just not understand (yet).. @Mr Sherman, keep up.. :)

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badrulsham mansor
22/4/2015 03:42:25 pm

Alvin is having a fun time making malays upset. He is wrong. Malays are not upset. Muslims all over the world are upset. That includes in USA! You just gave out your address to the world. Watch your back bro.

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nurul ashikin pasqual
22/4/2015 03:42:38 pm

Thank you Rev. Deacon Dr Sherman!!
Respect!!😍

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L P
22/4/2015 03:52:45 pm

The only thing that I see he did wrong was being shirtless. It looks like he sang it from his heart and he sounded good. That tattoo on his chest looks like a west coast chopper logo instead of a cross. I think people needs to move on. Too much drama..

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Aida
22/4/2015 04:00:44 pm

Well said Dr. Sherman. Hats off!

You have my respect sir.

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DonnaG
22/4/2015 04:07:31 pm

Tq For the Wonderful comment Dr Sherman...

To KIAN & ALVIN
You BoTH are loser & All the animals or any shitz! Are better than ur mentaly sickness!.. Even the ghost are hunting both of u now! I congrats u if u can live longer with ur current sickness

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amy
22/4/2015 04:09:06 pm

You make me believe in Malaysians again. I am a Muslim, and your letter gave me hope that we all can live together and embrace our differences

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Farah
22/4/2015 05:03:10 pm

Dr. Sherman, thank you so much forthis open letter. I do hope that idiot-attention seeker Alvin read this message. He may not react publicly about this but I guess at least this message give a punch to his face.

Alvin and Kian, eventho your action and comments do show a high level of idiotic, i do wish one day you guys become wiser to understand why we believe in God and be respect to each other are important.

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jason
22/4/2015 05:08:37 pm

I may be only guessing. But from many times of what Alvin done in the past, i observed some connection between his current action with latest unfair incident happened in Malaysia. As for this time, i felt that he just want to purposely do this 'singing' to let those demonstrator know the feeling of being insulted on the religion issue. He may just want to aim to insult this small group of people or those fanatic thinking people about insulting other religion. May be the way is not appropriate. But i think he not meant to hurt the rest of the muslims.

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Suhardi Bin Razali
22/4/2015 05:32:41 pm

I am very very worried with the increasing cross bordering of another faith by people who I believe are mostly those who are unfortunately have not even started reading their own holy books let alone understand them. I guess the religious authorities form the respective religion, be they the Islamic Body, Christian, Buddhist or Hindu Association need to take concrete step t address this unhealthy development. Meanwhile, parents and teachers too must play their role responsibly. DO NOT TALK ABOUT ANOTHER RELIGION BUT RATHER STRENGTHEN YOUR OWN BELIEF. THAT IS BETTER.

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Amal
23/4/2015 12:01:12 am

Alvin seorang yang berjiwa kosong, semuga diberi hidayah. Dr Shermon terima kasih.

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Peter Lee
22/4/2015 05:38:44 pm

Alvin is just a spoil brat....! Time to grow up & don't give more problems to your parents & your fellow country men.....!

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zaki
22/4/2015 05:54:10 pm

Let me write in Bahasa ? Ingatlah! sesungguhnya hidayah itu dari Allah kerana DIA Yang Maha Menghendaki! dan DIA Yang Maha Tahu ! dan DIA Maha Berkuasa atas segala galanya! Alvin mungkin dipilih.tiada siapa tahu kerana ruh itu milik ROBB(Tuhan)

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Dr Sera
22/4/2015 06:22:09 pm

I am so glad that my outraged is being published ....god grieves! so many ill people .... Alvin ...Please stay there. We dont need you. SHAME ON YOU !!!!

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Philosoraptor
22/4/2015 06:39:03 pm

Makes me wonder if there's an open letter to Alvin because he's an easy target, hmm. I don't see an open letter to the IGP with regards to the removal of the cross. Afraid much?

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Bob yusoff
22/4/2015 07:09:36 pm

Well written,thanks for the good words,peace

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khalid
22/4/2015 07:44:31 pm

To Kian...

Are you malaysian?

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Neddy
22/4/2015 09:29:48 pm

Thank you so much for this meaningful letter Dr. Sherman. Once and for all I would like to bring out the issues we have in Malaysia. Different people have different political views even if they're in the same religion. Even the same religion fight with each other for no better reason. Trying to show who's best at delivering what can be beneficial to the country. Even in the midst fighting they tend to pay respect for each other because we are all human and we have brains to think and heart to still love. If it's not for the morality we all would've been in war right now killing thousands of innocent people.
What I'm trying to say is, no matter where you're from, whatever religious you preach there will always be a room to think about how other's may feel.

I am a Malaysian studying in England and I used to have a British atheist flatmate last year. Whenever it is dinnertime he would always ask me questions about the Muslim religion. He's so polite that he would go as far as cleaning the microwave after he pre-heated his bacon(although is not an exception in Muslim but I appreciated his efforts). You see, being a normal human being is like being friends with different kinds of people. People will help you if you need them, and people will tear you up when you try to tear them up but most people would tend to help instead I believe. Let's spread the love and stop hating on each other. Travel more,be curious and know where you stand before spitting hypothetical judgement.

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keyboard warrior
22/4/2015 09:43:05 pm

tq for your letter. i on the other hand believe there will be justice for us muslims. its just a matter of time. he mocks every religion even the pope.

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rumah lelong johor link
22/4/2015 10:03:04 pm

Truly respect

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selvarajan
22/4/2015 10:53:39 pm

Thank you so much for the comment. It is enough of destruction created by people, and we, no matter what religion we are or even atheist, should choose to live in harmony. We are intelligent complex being, so we should in fact act like one. It is so sad to see insensitive people that live among us, that cause greater destruction rather than building humanity among us human. Thanks again mr. Sherman.

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hazelle
23/4/2015 12:21:24 am

thank u so much Dr Sherman

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Mohamah Nawy
23/4/2015 12:28:09 am

Thanks Dr Sherman. True indeed Malaysians need more people like you.
Alvin ..you are not insulting me as a malaysian muslim at all but US muslims more sensitive than me. Just watch out

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MY
23/4/2015 12:37:17 am

Assalamualaikum muslim brothers and sisters and greeting to all others here. I must admit that there was a brief moment in which I was caught up in what can be described by a rising wave of anger inside me when I started viewing this video. Only to realize at the end of the video that it was in fact more sad than offensive. A desperate and somewhat pathetic call for attention. Taking a positive spin from the whole thing, we as muslims should, despite what people like Alvin do or say, be compassionate, uphold peace and be rational. Perhaps, Alvin has been "chosen" to show us what not to be...perhaps he is to open the eyes of others on what Islam is about...we do not know ALLAH's grand plan...only that there is a plan. Please view the King of Jordan's address to the European Parliament. A much better use of everyone's time I assure you...

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NAB
23/4/2015 03:40:55 am

I totally agree with you MY..!

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ct
23/4/2015 01:28:42 am

Thank you sir..

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Dr Kohila
23/4/2015 01:53:23 am

Thank you Dr Sherman...u hve expressed my very own sentiments. I come from a small town where all of us, regardless of race and religion, lived amicably n peacefully respecting each other n their beliefs. Im distraught to know tht my grandchl cannot and will not hve this sort of environment to grow up in!! I want my beloved former Msia back.

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Mandy Sim
23/4/2015 02:00:57 am

Dear Dr Sherman,

Thank you for your open letter to Alvin. You have truly spoken for me. I am very sad and worried over many unpleasant racial and religious incidences in Malaysia over the months. These incidences are tearing the fabric of harmony in our society apart - or so I think - because I rarely read opinions and thoughts of people who really love Malaysia and wants to live in peace with each other. Your letter has invoked a response from many Malaysians of different faith to affirm their beliefs in God and our fellow countrymen.
From the bottom of my heart, thank you - to you and all good Malaysians. This is my country and I will do my best to live in peace with my neighbours because I love Malaysia.

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Hazidi Abdul Hamid link
23/4/2015 02:01:51 am

Dear Sir, I would just like to express my appreciation and gratitude for the message you wrote. I find it a refreshing moment of sanity in an increasingly insane world.
Once again, thank you.

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Philip Sta. Maria
23/4/2015 02:29:05 am

Dear Rev. Deacon Sherman....someone had to say this & you said it well! God Bless!

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Nabila Jamil
23/4/2015 02:30:36 am

Dear Reverend,

I am deeply touched by your letter and your kind thoughts for us Muslims who merely want to co-exist peacefully with those of other religion. However, I applaud Alvin's effort to memorize the Azan and its melody, despite his malicious intention to mock Islam.

Sir, I wish my Muslim brothers and sisters would take some time to read your letter and reflect on their words and actions that hurt the Christians around. Please let me apologize on their behalf, for they know not better, for not understanding, for not tolerating. I wish that more Muslims would think like you. I know there are many, but we need more.

Alvin's action is just a pathetic loud cry for attention. I hope he finds salvation. I hope one day he will be able to clean his heart. I hope one day he finds religion and understand that at the end of the day, we turn to God for everything. I pray that one day there will be no hatred in his heart.

Thank you, Sir, for this thoughtful letter.

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AT
23/4/2015 02:38:43 am

Nothing more than an overgrown child lashing out in desperate search of attention And his atrocious singing is not doing him any favours.

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obo
23/4/2015 02:52:30 am

In a hadis, it was said that in one incident a man had peed in a mosque in Madinah. The sahabats wanted to punish him in a very cruel manner. The Prophet Muhammad instead, told the sahabat not to do so. He instead called the man and forgive him for his action to urinate in a holy and sacred place, the mosque.

My fellow muslim, take heart from this hadis.. what alvin did is grossly wrong and an insult to us muslim. However as a muslim to forgive is the best thing to do as our Prophet have shown.

What had transpired cannot be undone. But we must learn that it is wrong to be disrespectful to others. We malaysian love peace. We want to live harmoniously with each other no matter ur a muslim or buddhist or christian or a hindu or an atheist.

So dont let one childish act affect our bond in this multiracial country.

To Dr. Sherman, i just wish our politician do hv ur sensible thought n senses. Tq for ur letter.

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Bard Doc
23/4/2015 05:48:19 am

Alvin might not be a religious person or he may just be someone who is a pagan or a heretic...therefore he might not be sensitive towards other religion...

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Denis Hayes link
23/4/2015 06:41:29 am

I do think that the reply to Alvin by Rev Sherman is a little pointed but graceful and good hearted.
It is a pity that other comments are not of the same standard. Gutter language, name calling and threats are more suitable for the so called football fans who resort to personal insults rather than the game.
Freedom of speech is a great asset, particularly in modern society with so many conflicting views and opinions.
The problem is that it should not be abused. Equally the problem is that too many people are just queueing up to be too easy offended.
Personally I thought the video performance offended my ears. I love music, satire, humour and talent - this performance was truly awful.
Charlie Hebro was a low level magazine with creative writers whose definite talents should have been better employed. Their atrocious and barbaric murder elevated that paper to a level it did not deserve. It achieved a level of fame, not because of quality but because of a senseless act.
Do not give Alvin more than his fifteen minutes of pathetic fame.
Let him fade into the obscurity he deserves.
All over the world there are far more serious problems to be addressed.

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Danny Quest
23/4/2015 08:12:37 am

I agree. What we all should do is stop trolling on the internet. People like Alvin will continue to surface and by giving them a response only fuels their cause(s).
Maybe we should have a limitation to freedom of speech on the net?

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Unbelievable
23/4/2015 07:32:12 am

To Kian,

You say as long as one does not break the law..... and God is man made..... you obey the law which is man made but allow yourself to mock and disrespect others? You contradict yourself but that can't be helped since you are an Atheist having no sense of who you are in this big world made by GOD.

Furthermore, you are an Atheist, why are you even commenting in a blog run by a religious man. Again, you contradict yourself. Are you actually searching for GOD? If you are, let Dr Sherman, Deacon of the Catholic Church assist you in finding GOD. Otherwise, Atheist or Theist, its mutual respect for each human being that must be upheld.

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Logos
23/4/2015 08:20:08 am

Interesting discussion about the boundaries of respect and insult from an atheist or theist standpoint.

I feel that this has less to do with respect, and more to do with when you should go out of your way to insult something dear to someone (say, their mother). 'Respect' in the sense of "having a high regard for" is irrelevant because as an Atheist, it is illogical for you to have a high regard for something you do not believe it.

Kian and a few others are arguing for a "freedom to attack theists in a derogatory manner", while most theists and some atheists in this section are arguing for the "freedom for theists to defend a principle they hold dear". Now, when you think about it, some have rightly pointed out that the morality of this standpoint has nothing to do with religion, but rather basic manners/tolerance. In arguing the right to insult theists because one is atheist, you're implying that atheists are free from basic forms of morality (in this case it is tolerance among humankind, but where is the line drawn and who draws it?) - most genuine atheists would be appalled by this standpoint as it also implies religion is the only reference for basic morality. Definitely not a rallying call for atheists like Sam Harris (author of 'The Moral Landscape').

On the other hand being intolerant and abrasive towards people who hold a different viewpoint different than your own has been a chronic problem of humankind for centuries. The Crusades, Nazism, Pol Pot, Chairman Mao, or Stalin, all showed us how this lead down a bloody road. Their philosophical stances were either theist or atheist - in these stances they had no common denominator. The intolerance and hatred of other viewpoints was definitely a larger common denominator (among others of course, like greed).

Still, I am not offended by insults towards my beliefs. And no one should jail anybody for them. I just think that possessing a different stance does not necessitate being actively abrasive to the rest of humankind. You can, but it says more about you then your philosophical viewpoint. I have no problem with you 'evangelizing' your point of view too. As a Christian I take no offense in Muslims, Hindus, Atheists telling me in my face that they oppose my beliefs for reasons A,B, and C and telling me I should denounce my beliefs. Whether I do or not is my choice. But painting yourself as abrasive in the process of doing so is your choice ;)

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jd
24/4/2015 04:11:07 pm

In response to Logos.

Agreed on the common denominator that drives society apart is hate and the lack of basic moral attributes.

As indicated by numerous post before, clearly and evidently, we as people (not taking into consideration the colour of your skin, heritage, or even possible religious beliefs) that we allow and continue to feed off the hatred for an opinion or lack of.

People should not be insulted by the choices they make (be it religious or daily choices) as it is their personal choices and it should not concern others. shouldn't it be
"to those who care does not matter and to those who matters does not care"

let that sink in a little.

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jasmin elly
23/4/2015 08:39:17 am

Wooooow!......what a F.......Sh........Alvin very disguting n its doesn' t reflect that your are a human being with God's given brain......worst then Animal.

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GG
23/4/2015 09:45:17 am

where is kian? why you keep silence????i am christian but i do RESPECT all religions including YOU...

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Moses
23/4/2015 10:53:15 am

Kian is Alvin!

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HE
23/4/2015 02:45:45 pm

In response to Mr Kian

"Respect is to be earned" as you said and most people love to use this quote...but when i put a second thought to agree with the famous quote..

I need to find an answer to this question first - "Does my mother needs to earn my respect?"

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Kian
24/4/2015 07:09:49 am

@HE: Dumb question. Religions are everywhere and affects everyones lives for the good and bad. Your mum is probably unknown and she most likely doesn't affect anyone else. Your claim doesn't stand. Think before you speak.

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Truly Malaysian
23/4/2015 03:31:47 pm

Well said Dr Sherman. I think Alvin needs to be more careful. In America there are many muslim extremists that ever willing to eradicate those making fun of their beliefs. He has to be very careful if that video falls to the hand of the extremists. What he did is not a joke. He has to know that.

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American
24/4/2015 01:42:27 am

I'm an American and don't know of any 'muslim extremists" in America. Don't get brainwashed by the media.

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wolf
23/4/2015 05:08:01 pm

Kian,
Are you Alvin in disguise.If i insult your mom and call her names,will you be upset?

But why?its just my perspective. I can say your mom or you never earned any respect!

The Pope rightly said that he would have hit someone if someone insulted his mom in relation to the Paris Killings. He is not condoning violence nor he is saying that we shouldn't turn the other cheek. But what he was saying is we owe an obligation to respect other people. It may not be your believe or perspective but we are humans and we will be hurt whether we , our religion,our non religion, our mother or whatever is dear to us is insulted.

So is your mother a whore?Should the defence be that It depends on whose perspective you ask!

Grow up boy! We don't live alone. That's how God or in your case nature wanted us to be.

Peace

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Kian
24/4/2015 05:39:15 am

@wolf: You might just be the biggest dumbass I've encountered in this thread. =)

First of all, just incase your incapable of basic understanding. The difference between my mom and religion is that no one has seen my mum but religion is all around us - It affects everyone one way or the other, therefore we have the right to scrutinise it.

Speaking of respect. I did not disrespect religion. I'm just on a mission to debunk religion, just like how religion is always out trying to "save" souls and corrupt people. So if you want me to stop "disrespecting" religions, tell religions to stop spreading their fairy tale message and we will all live in peace.

Next time, try to read closer and deeper before exposing your stupidity, pretty please? Thanks,

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Your mom
25/4/2015 03:18:12 pm

No one has seen your mom cause she left you as a baby, knowing how much of a scum you're going to be.

kayy
23/4/2015 05:26:05 pm

I refuese to be bothered by Alvin. Alvin is just like a naughty boy who wants attention. Kinda like my students in class yg tak cukup kasih sayang tu. He's an attention whore. He is practically a nobody in the US and nobody gives a flying eff about him. In Malaysia, he is somewhat known for his sexual exploits and shockingly shabby decision making skills. So, he be like "Urgh, I am so bored. Nobody cares about me. Gonna act out and piss off some Malaysians, to make sure they remember me. I really miss their attention on me." Hence the idiotic reciting the azan half naked with a keyboard. Gosh, he is so pathetic. He is so afraid people in Malaysia will forget him. So he decided to do shocking things in hope of being remembered. You know kinda like Miley Cyrus' on the 2013 VMA when she twerked amd grinded against Robin Thicke. Like he is so desperate for validation or response to ensure that he is memorable. That he still matters.. well, you're don't, Alvin. You're spam, a total waste of space. I hope you do something stupid like this again and get what u deserve. Please, by all means. And where is Kian...he probably misses Alvin's orgy videos...

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Junbug
23/4/2015 09:09:30 pm

From what I see people are arguing over what Alvin did and claiming that it is rude and insulting. Furthermore when Kian tries to argue the fact that he is not changing the words in the prayers to insult the religion and that he is merely repeating the prayers to a different tune as (this is a example no more no less and gives no regard to Alvin's religion)certain christian groups would do with their own religious songs. Yet everyone claims that it is a mockery of and an insult towards people who practice the religion. Does anyone here know what the word mockery means? What about insult? Did he alter the prayer in any way using teasing and contemptuous language? Did he insult the religion in any way? Did he slander the god or religion? Did he disparage or discredit Islam?
Furthermore you argue with Kian about respect? How many of you actually respect other or their religions? I am an atheist myself. Every day I see someone saying their religion is the true one and others are fake. Almost everyday I have someone tell me its not good to not have a religion and that they have read the scriptures and studied several religions and chosen. If you have good for you. There is no need to run an advertising agency for your religion. Yet none of you see this as an insult to others. In fact, most of you treat it as commonplace, as something normal in this country. I respect my friends and their religion. I don't go around degrading people's religion by saying there is no god. I respect them and their place of worship. Understand this simple fact: He took the time to learn the prayer word for word even though he wasn't of your religion. I fail to see that supposed to be an insult or mockery to the religion.

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teong link
24/4/2015 10:49:10 am

I concur with you.I try but I cannot uttera word.Alvin is genius.

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tom
24/4/2015 01:32:54 am

Thank you very much Dr. Sherman for a superb letter! Alvin deserves it.

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Zarul
24/4/2015 02:35:18 am

Thumbs up Dr Sherman.. Mr Alvin Tan TQVM..

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Haslina Ibrahim
24/4/2015 05:05:44 am

Dear Rev. Thank you very much.

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Alloycious Smitch link
24/4/2015 07:39:49 am

Alvin/ Kian,
It is really nice for you to watch an interview of Yusuf Estes in a TV show what he means about Atheist (free will), Jesus in Islam, Concept of God in Islam. And you will get to know why a guy like him (Estes) became a good Muslim etc. Have a look, You will like it..
http://kenh91.com/videos/Jf6sXV-VZUo

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Kian
24/4/2015 09:06:44 am

Thanks for your video link, but I know who Yusuf Estes is and I'm not really too fond of him. Anyway, my point is this: I don't believe that religion changes people, people change themselves through religion based on their views. perspectives and experiences.

Using your point of logic, I could also send you video links of people like Anjem Choudary, Sheikh Omar Bakri on how they became salafist. Both Yusuf and Anjem both profess strongly through their religion but they are on completely opposite ends of the spectrum. It's the person, not the religion. Religion is nothing more than a tool.

Peace =)

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abdul link
24/4/2015 08:02:29 am

KIAN...you're plain COWARD !!! Alvin chose to venge his Hatred towards Islam but YOU chose to hide behind Alvin's action...for whatever YOU SAY...i saw only HATRED in you

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Kian
24/4/2015 09:08:53 am

Didn't your religion teach you to be peaceful, loving and compassionate? Or is it true that your religion is one that is aggressive, violent and intolerant as shown by you? Showing your true colours already eh? hehe

Seems like I'm a lot more peaceful than you are. Maybe you use be an Atheist. Be less hateful. =)

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abdul link
24/4/2015 09:50:12 am

Come on KIAN....venge your HATRED with some ACTION just like ALVIN or is KIAN and ALVIN are just ONE BEING ??? bring out that HATRED and show us that DEVIL IN YOU ??? worry not as nobody can and nobody will do anything to YOU

Angel
24/4/2015 11:18:44 pm

They dont see your point..i do. What you have expressed and written is merely to state a point.. the responses you get is totally out of point..they dont read deep enough...anyway i dont want to say much...

abdul link
24/4/2015 09:34:42 am

Showing your true colours already eh? hehe ...hehe?....hehe? laughing ? even your laugh shows your HATRED ..."Showing your true colours already eh?...." Ready to POUNCE KIAN? Ready to KILL KIAN? am not surprised...with all that HATRED IN YOU, i'am sure you're CAPABLE MUCH MORE than that

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Alloycious Smitch
24/4/2015 10:31:41 am

to all of us,
We should stop sending or reply a message in this forum. There is nothing much we can do with Alvin @ Kian. He has his own way to live on earth but not in Malaysia or other countries which practicing law and order due to his "free will" ideology to not respect other people living. Hope, you will find the good place to live with atheist people.

Thanks.

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Pat
24/4/2015 10:03:00 am

Haha, another attention seeker here. Guys, just ignore him. You know he could go on and on and on, that's what attention seeker do.

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apamau
24/4/2015 11:03:17 am


Kian and the rest of Atheist, am an Atheist, though I don't believe in them, but I do respect all religion. And sometimes, this respect was something we learn thru our brought up, especially in Malaysia, we are living in multiracial and multi religion country

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Aby
24/4/2015 02:49:57 pm

Let us all pray that he will one day regretted his wrongdoings and repent.

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Zabidi shabaneh
24/4/2015 04:56:02 pm

Do not respect their GOD but pls respect what they believe.

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Zac Chew
25/4/2015 12:21:33 am

If given the chance, i would personally slap this SH Alvin

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luna
25/4/2015 01:57:23 am

@Kian

While I applaud your debating skills, and the validity of your arguments based on logical thinking, you have to understand the outcry of the public from a relative religious and conservative background. Religion is very emotional, personal thing and rarely, almost never requires the use of critical thinking or logic. It relies on faith, mostly blind faith. Being brought up from a religious background, religions is held very dear to them, mixed in their very core and carries very high emotional value. They have been imbibed since young.Challenging it makes the believers see red. And trying to even make them see your perspective, is a huge tectonic shift of cognitive dissonance that's never gonna happen. You can argue how much you want that religions and beliefs aren't people, just abstract ideas and are open to ridicule, if you don't mind losing your head in the process. Literally. There is no place for critical and logical thinking here. Most people aren't even educated enough to even I understand the syntax of what consist of a valid argument nor what logical fallacies even mean. It's a knee jerk reaction. And supported the majority. It's a mob rule. As much as westerners have no qualms 'insulting' Jesus in movies, meme, offensive jokes, and taken as light hearted humour, easterners are yet to reach that. There are still honour killings in this part of the world. So don't argue, or rock the boat. Save your breath or arguments for academicians and those who are open and invite such debate in the hopes of edifying one another. Not the lay public.

That sweet kind mak cik that sells those delicious currypuff from the stalls never even asked for a debate, or called for a theological discussion on religions. She was happily, going about her life. Just as much as you don't want door to door Christians handing out pamphlets and trying to make you 'see the light' and trying to 'save you' but requesting you to embrace Christianity, she doesn't want you to impose your views on her either. Live and let live.

P.a: As much as I agree that Alvin can do what he wants under the umbrella of 'freedom of expression' it doesn't make it right. He is a troll, with malicious intent, knowing very well how his antics will be accepted. He is like a parasite wishing to rock the boat and destabilise any ounce of racial and religious harmony this country desperately needs. He is throwing the wrench in the works for his pure entertainment, and to feed off the attention, outcry, emotional upset from the responders knowing very well how they would receive it. He is an insult to atheists everywhere and a giant douchbag of the worst kind. The very fact that he revels and supports the Nazi ideology, instead of condoning it and has a Nazi cross and a swastika tattooed across his chest shows where his morals lie, and the kind of person he is. Don't waste your breath and try to defend him. It isn't about atheism. He is just an asshole. That's all.

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Batman
25/4/2015 10:05:12 am

Why waste time with kian when the letter was meant for alvin.... Anyway both are equally short curcuit

Reply
Patrick link
26/4/2015 08:00:15 pm

bro Sherman, where were you 2 weeks ago when the moslems asked to bring down a cross at a church in Klang?? Did you make an effort to write an open letter to those moslem extremists or an open letter to all Malaysians to address the situation ??

Reply
Brian
27/4/2015 02:31:58 am

Dear all, let's just be appreciative to the original author off this letter instead off bashing one another. I believe all Religion in this world speaks about respecting one another. There are individuals here calling for Alvins head to be removed. Please don't play GOD .., no religion preeches violence or hatred - if you have nothing encouraging or good to say , pls be quiet . As I was reading all the comments I could not believe some comments being shared here which were utterly shameful as the subject was about Religion!! There is no place for bad language nor hatred in any religion as GOD always spoke off 'LOVE, RESPECT , OBEIDIENCE ..no man can say that he was carrying out GOD's work by taking another's life nor disrespecting another religion . Come on people share some love....

Reply
Emmanuel Onjewu
27/4/2015 08:24:02 am

Well conceived, well written Dr. Kuek

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