The Subang Jaya Municipal Council (MPSJ) caused an uproar of protests, support, and general debate among people when it moved to ban Muslims from working at outlets that sell liquor. The MPSJ introduced the new licensing guidelines last Wednesday that prohibits booze-serving outlets from hiring Muslims, in line with the Syariah Criminal Enactment of Selangor.
However, the State Government reversed the ban on Thursday, saying that MPSJ had not consulted the State before implementing the ban. Discussions are being carried out to reach an amicable solution, according to Selangor Mentri Besar Tan Sri Abdul Khalid Ibrahim.
The ruling, which bans Muslims from being employed in establishments that serves alcohol, is 20 years old but has never been implemented. Fears of widespread unemployment among Muslims, as well as the financial burden on establishments which have hired them, have caused a public outcry against this ruling.
One must wonder why the ruling has suddenly come into effect 20 years after it was established. The sudden implementation of it would be an irresponsible action, not properly taking into account the needs of the people.
The obvious major problem, to the unemployed as well as the employer, is the sudden massive loss of jobs. Why should taxpayers compensate out-of-job Muslims, when the Government could have avoided the problem altogether by enforcing the ruling 20 years ago, or even (I may go so far as to say) abolishing it altogether?
Faith in an individual is, after all, a by-product of one's own convictions, and cannot be achieved through the implementation of laws that only serve to burden society.
The floods, which began in December 2010, continue to plague Australia till today. The most serious damage occurs in Queensland, with about two thirds of the state devastated. From there the floods have spread to swamp more than 50 villages in the state of Victoria.
According to Federal Treasurer Wayne Swan, it is the "biggest natural disaster" in Australian history.
About 30 people are believed to have died in the floods that swept up homes, cars, and trees, forcing people onto roofs of houses and cars. Residents of affected areas and surrounding are on high alert, preparing for the impending danger by packing sandbags around their homes. In Queensland alone, about 30,000 homes have been damaged.
The greatest economic disaster lies in Queensland’s lucrative coal-mining industry. Coal exports are expected to be reduced by 16.5 million tons by March, according to the Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences.
Nevertheless, it is heartening to hear of the stories of aid washing into the country during this hour of great need. Complete strangers show up at devastated neighbourhoods to clean up. Businesses are pouring in donations to support flood victims. Even celebrities like Lance Armstrong and Kenny Rogers are helping out greatly with their fundraisers.
It truly goes to show that the worst of disasters can bring out the best in people.
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