THIS is perhaps a misplaced good intention in that convert Muslim preacher Prof Mohd Ridhuan Tee Abdullah could have over-stepped his boundary by undermining the Chinese concept of filial piety edified by Confucianism.

This comes about as the Muafakat Nasional deputy president ‘weaponised’ a Facebook post by Subang Jaya state assemblywoman Michelle Ng Mei Sze who brought her two-year-old son to visit the grave of her great grandparents in Kuantan for his political agenda.

Depicting the hardship endured by her great grandmother who came to the then Malaya to flee the revolt against the Qing Dynasty and the eventuality of her taking refuge as a child bride to a family who looked after her as their own, the two-term DAP representative made the following remarks which Ridhuan later capitaliaed upon:

“That family only knew what it meant to be ‘us’. It was never ‘us’ and ‘her’. And for that, I am eternally grateful. The best of us come about when we build bridges, not walls.”

Interestingly, the notion of “respecting your ancestors” and “build bridges, not walls” struck Ridhuan who “begged Ng to convey to ultra kiasu (his favourite phrase for chauvinist) leaders and other Chinese who are still unaware (of such reality)”.

“We ought to realise our origin as immigrants, running away from problems in the country of origin, migrating to this blessed land, saving ourselves, being well-received here until able to become a representative of the people,” contended Ridhuan, outlining that his views were expressed in conjunction with the Chinese Qingming (Tomb-Sweeping Day) festival.

“You should also jot down how kindly the Malays have accepted you here unconditionally. Therefore, do appreciate and take good care of the hearts and sensitivities of the Malays.”

The political science lecturer of Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin in Kuala Terengganu further took a swipe at DAP leaders “from the past until now who have never advised you (Ng) to take care of all these (to never to hurt feelings of the Malays) but instead continue to harp on sensitive issues that you should refrain from raising”.

“Examples include the issue of new Chinese village, bak kut teh, socks with Allah inscription, KK Mart and others,” noted the 58-year-old preacher who is revered by the Malay Muslim community.

“Why are you guys so rude to interfere? Let us solve such matters with the responsible parties ourselves. Better to shut up if unsure. But your leaders don’t behave that way. They seem to have forgotten the origin of their ancestors.”

At the end of the day, Ridhuan who cried foul when he was relieved as a panelist on RTM (Radio Televisyen Malaysia) talk show Forum Perdana Ehwal Islam soon after the formation of the unity government added:

“They don’t build bridges like you (Ng) expect. But build a wall … Finally, I hope that what you’ve penned here, you re-edit and share with other ultra kiasu leaders out there so that they will be grateful and are aware of their presence in this land of abundance.” - March 27, 2024 

https://focusmalaysia.my/rather-distasteful-for-ridhuan-tee-to-politicise-chinese-ancestral-worship-even-if-he-no-longer-believes-in-it/