Why do Malay Muslims selectively defend free speech?

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Malay Muslims Exhibit Selective Defence of Free Speech

Malay Muslims demonstrate a pattern of selectively defending free speech, advocating for it when it serves their interests or aligns with their beliefs, but opposing it when it challenges their perspectives or criticizes Islam. This selective application of the principle is evident in their reactions to various incidents, highlighting a double standard in their approach to religious and ideological discourse.
Upholding Free Speech for Aligned Views

The controversy surrounding Zakir Naik's cancelled talk at Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka (UTeM) on April 17 exemplifies this selective defence. Following the cancellation due to concerns within the Hindu community, an uproar ensued among some Malay Muslims who decried it as an infringement of free speech. This reaction was accompanied by a perception that Hindus feared mass conversions, and some mistakenly believed Naik had been denied entry into Malaysia, a situation comparable to his barring from the UK and Canada. Naik himself expressed dismay that the cancellation of one event was amplified to cause internal division within the Malay Muslim community, noting instances where Muslims labelled others "kafir" (infidel) over differing opinions.
Opposition to Criticism of Islam and Unorthodox Views

Conversely, the same Malay Muslim groups often oppose or remain silent when criticisms are directed at Islam or when individuals express views that deviate from their own understanding. The article points to instances where Malay Muslims are quick to invoke "freedom of speech" when Islamic scholars make potentially inflammatory statements about other religions, yet resist any critique of Islam. This is contrasted with the denial of entry for Dr. Ulil Abshar Abdalla in 2014, who was barred for supposedly being "deviant" despite intending to speak against terrorism, which raises questions about Malaysia's specific interpretation of Islam.
Contradictory Stances on Religious Freedom and Pluralism

The selective defence of free speech is further illustrated by contradictory stances on religious freedom and pluralism. While Malay Muslims may expect respect for the Muslim majority and react strongly to the perceived mistreatment of Muslim minorities abroad, they have also shown opposition to the construction of Hindu temples, the throwing of Molotov cocktails at churches, and the forced removal of church crosses. This dual approach suggests a desire for religious tolerance when it benefits Muslims, but a reluctance to extend the same courtesy to other faiths.
Hypocrisy in Addressing Excommunication and Labeling

A significant aspect of this hypocrisy lies in the disparate reactions to excommunication and the casual application of the term "kafir." While some Malay Muslims rallied behind Zakir Naik's statement against the excommunication of other Muslims, they are also described as readily labelling fellow Muslims as "kafir" for holding unorthodox opinions. This selective opposition to excommunication, coupled with the ease of labelling, indicates a preference for ideological conformity within their own community, while projecting an image of tolerance when it suits their narrative. The article notes that organizations like Sisters In Islam have also been labelled "deviant," highlighting a pattern of intolerance towards internal dissent.

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Why do Malay Muslims selectively defend free speech?

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