Malaysia opposes profiling Islamic nations as terrorist heaven
Malaysia is consistent in its stand opposing any countries' attempts at profiling Islamic countries or the stereotyping of countries regarded as Islamic as havens of terrorists, Malaysian news agency Bernama reported. Islamic countries do not breed terrorism which is related not only to religion but also extremism and fanaticism also present in non-Muslim countries, Malaysian Foreign Minister Syed Hamid Albar said.
"Therefore it is not fair if Islamic countries were to become victims and subjected to profiling over such matters," he told reporters here Friday.
The official was asked to comment on the latest move by the United States' immigration to fingerprint, photograph and trace the background of those who have visited Malaysia and Indonesia at US entry points.
However, he said, nations have the right to conduct whatever measures in their respective countries.
Asked whether Malaysia would send a protest note over the US action, Syed Hamid said: "In cases like this, we normally send protest notes as they reflect prejudice against Muslims and Islamic countries. We'll see."
