KUALA LUMPUR – The Christian Federation of Malaysia (CFM) has reaffirmed that while the separation of Church and State remains an important safeguard, it does not require silence from people of faith, particularly those in spiritual leadership.
In a statement dated Apr 20, CFM stressed that religious leaders carry a “sacred responsibility” to speak truth, even when it challenges those in authority. The federation underscored that the distinction between religious and civil spheres should not be interpreted as a withdrawal from moral engagement in public life.
Drawing on Scripture, CFM pointed to the long tradition of prophetic witness, where figures such as Nathan, Elijah and John the Baptist confronted rulers and called them to account. These examples, it said, demonstrate that fidelity to God demands courage in the face of power.
“This calling is not rooted in political ambition, but in obedience to divine justice,” the statement said, adding that the biblical image of the watchman in Ezekiel highlights the moral responsibility to warn against wrongdoing.
CFM emphasised that Church leaders are not only permitted but obligated to speak out when injustice occurs, particularly when the vulnerable are oppressed or when leaders depart from what is right. In doing so, they fulfil their role as moral voices anchored in truth rather than influenced by power.
The federation also cited German theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer, noting his assertion that “silence in the face of evil is itself evil.” It said remaining silent in the face of wrongdoing constitutes a failure to uphold the responsibilities entrusted to those in spiritual leadership.
“At every age, the integrity of faith demands a voice that does not bend to power,” the statement noted, calling for both courage and humility in addressing issues of justice and governance.
CFM reiterated its commitment to continue speaking on matters affecting national and religious freedom. It said it would do so both independently and in collaboration with other faith groups, including through the Malaysian Consultative Council of Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism and Taoism (MCCBCHST).
The statement reflects CFM’s ongoing role as a collective voice for the Christian community in Malaysia, particularly in addressing issues at the intersection of faith, ethics and public life. – Herald Malaysia
