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Christians constitute a minority of the population in Malaysia, where they are frequently marginalized and pressured to convert to Islam. According to recent reports from the community of Nabawan, the national identity cards of some Christians have been secretly changed, classifying them as Muslims rather than followers of Jesus. These changes were made without the believers' knowledge.
Individuals who are designated as Muslims in this predominantly Islamic country are subject to Sharia law – a requirement not imposed on those having other religious designations. As stated by VOMC's CEO, Floyd Brobbel, "So now these Christians who were immune from Islamic courts are...going to have to follow Islamic tradition [and] Islamic law. There's no recourse for them."
As pointed out by Floyd, however, "Just because these Christians now are...classified as being Muslim doesn't mean that they're Muslim in their hearts or faith levels.... Christians will continue to do the work of evangelism and live out a Biblical worldview." Further information concerning the difficulties facing Malaysian Christians is available at our country profile.
- Pray that God will provide guidance and wisdom to those who are working to resolve this issue of concern.
- In the meantime, may Christians in Malaysia continue to rejoice in the eternal hope they have through the atoning life, death and resurrection of Christ.
- Additionally, pray for increased evangelistic efforts to take place within this Muslim-majority nation, so that the "Good News" of the Gospel can be readily received by many more spiritually needy people throughout the country.
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