In response to the recent ruling regarding Lina Joy, AlJazeera reports that the Pakistani state of Kelantan has approved harsher penalties against those attempting to convert Muslims to other faiths. Anyone found guilty under the newer law faces a maximum penalty of six lashes with a rattan cane, five years in prison, and a fine of nearly $3,000. The previous penalty was two years in prison and a $1,400 fine.
While the Malaysian constitution is framed to provide freedom of religion for all citizens, the nation’s parallel Islamic legal system often provides occasion for religious conflicts. Islamic authorities often send Malay Muslims to counseling and rehabilitation when they attempt to convert to other faiths. Some are imprisoned for “apostasy” when they convert.
