Launch Of Rally In Mecca, Medina Mars Image Of Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR, May 3 (Bernama) - The launch of the opposition backed rally in Mecca and Medina on April 26 has marred the image of Malaysians who are respected by people of Saudi Arabia. Ulama Muda Malaysia Working Committee Secretariat chairman Fathul Bari Mat Jahaya said the rally gave negative impact to dilomatic ties between Saudi Arabia and Malaysia. "If we travel anywhere in Saudi Arabia, the locals will praise Malaysians for our good character. "Organising a rally where men and women mix together and led by a woman who hates Islam has marred our (Malaysia) name," he said commenting on the rally's launch at Masjid Nabawi, Medina and near Masjidilharam, Mecca by PAS leaders and members. Fathul Bari said Malaysian students pursuing higher education in Saudi Arabia should not join have joined the rally but should focus on their studies. "Knowing politics is not wrong as they must know whats happening in the country but not being extreme by ignoring their responsibilities and priorities. "Their participation shows that they are not knowledgeable. Knowledgeable people don't have to scream." Meanwhile, Ilmuan Muda Malaysia chairman Dr Fadlan Mohd Othman said the irresponsible action of certain parties will affect the Saudi Arabian government's trust and confidence in Malaysian haj and umrah pilgrims. "Although not many Malaysians joined the rally, it attracted attention of people there. Most likely the Saudi Arabian government is worried of a repeat asit can lead to security problems. "We are worried that the Saudi Arabian government will not hesitate to to impose stricter security checks on Malaysian pilgrims," he added. --BERNAMA