End all this insanity....

Categories: Wormie Says

Since the publication of Prophet Mohammad caricature a few days ago, we have seen some insanity on both sides. On the one corner, we have over-zealous defendants of freedom of speech and on the other corner, we have and equally over-zealous defendants of Islam. And unfortunately, in this match, the spectators bear the brunt of the fallout.

Defendants of freedom of speech had proven their point when various newspapers in various European countries boldly printed their thinking on the front page. 'Defendants' of Islam have also proven their point with the widespread demonstrations and unfortunate in a violent manner. And who are the people who suffer as a consequence? The spectators - the silent majority - who are not involved in the controversy.

Any winner in this match? None whatsoever. Any loser? YES, everybody involved and sadly the spectators as well.

It is timely that the Organisation of Islamic Countries had categorically expressed their disapproval with the way the over-zealous Islamic defendants are showing their protests. It is equally heartening that heads of Western countries are calling for restrain on their press.

I feel that both sides are in the wrong. One being provocative and the other walking straight into the former's trap. By depicting the Prophet with a bomb on his turban, the West tried to stereotype the Muslims. But by resorting to violence, burning of Embassy and destruction, these very 'Muslims' are reinforcing the very stereotype they are trying to prevent.

Feelings had been deeply hurt but resorting to violence will not help. Since money talks, the most effective method to deal with such controversy will be to boycott their products. Already, we can see the effectiveness of this boycott with Danish companies quoted as having lost about a million a day in trade. This is certainly more effective and fruitful.

Already we had seen much destruction and both sides had made their point. Now should be the time to look back and reflect on each actions and consequence. Now is the time to stop the insanity.