Syed Ali denounces Utusan’s anti-Sufi bent

The paper shouldn't accept the views of those with no learning, says the Cheras Umno chief.

PETALING JAYA: Cheras Umno chief Syed Ali Alhabshee has accused Utusan Malaysia of promoting the agenda of Muslims who would impose a blanket ban on all Sufi groups.

Referring to Utusan’s current campaign against the visit of foreign Sufi teachers Umar Bin Hafiz and Syech Bin Abdul Qodir Assegaf, he said in a press statement today that it was unreasonable for the Umno paper to assume that all Sufis promote beliefs and practices that go against the Prophet’s teachings.

He noted that today was the fourth day that the paper had carried articles that condemned the two personalities.

He said it was unjust of Utusan to associate the two with the Naqsyabandiah Al-Aliyah Order, which the National Fatwa Council banned in 2000.

He pointed out that the entry of foreign religious groups into the country was closely monitored by Jakim and the state religious councils.

“Before making its allegations, Utusan should have first referred to Jakim or the state religious councils instead of accepting the views of those who have no learning in such matters,” he said.

“It appears that the Utusan reports were planned by a certain group that is out to promote a negative perception of the Sufi movement.”

According to its proponents, Sufism is not a sect of Islam, but a discipline followed by Muslims who aspire to attain closeness to God through spiritual practices. Some mainstream Muslims condemn them for allegedly distancing themselves from the affairs of the world.