Kuala lumpur: Differences in views, including political ideas and beliefs, should not be taken to the point where those who disagree are portrayed as threats to religion or race, according to Yayasan Dakwah Islamiah Malaysia (YADIM) chairman Datuk Dr Hasan Bahrom. He warned that such an approach could foster ghuluw - excessive or extremist thinking that goes beyond reasonable limits - while fuelling fear and suspicion in society.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Hasan emphasized that not every difference in policy or approach poses a threat to Islam or any particular community. He criticized the irrational tendency to accuse opposing groups of pursuing a colonial agenda, compromising faith, or undermining Islam without sound evidence or reasonable grounds.

Hasan further explained that understanding a community's history and experiences of colonialism was important, but cautioned against selectively invoking such history to portray every contemporary disagreement as a continuation of a colonial agenda aimed at weakening or destroying religious beliefs. He advised against using history to sow fear and suspicion among citizens to the point where certain groups are treated as enemies merely because they hold different views.

He warned that the consequences of ghuluw should not be underestimated, as it could deepen divisions among Muslims and encourage labeling and hostility over differences in choices or stances. Hasan cautioned that this could lead non-Muslims to view Muslims as a community prone to hostility through rhetoric expressed in the name of religion.

Hasan stated that Islam does not become stronger when language becomes harsher or more abrasive. Instead, Islam strengthens when knowledge grows, good character is upheld, and society benefits. He highlighted that da'wah should bring people closer to Islam, not drive them away by creating the impression that Muslims are constantly attacking one another.

He called on those who speak in the name of religion to reject a culture of personal attacks, slander, and excess towards people with differing views. Hasan advised offering criticism with knowledge, arguing with facts, and disagreeing with civility. He urged that excessive zeal in defending religion should not damage Muslim solidarity or complicate the work of da'wah in building a strong civilization.