The way forward for Malaysia should be decided by consensus, MCA Religious Harmony Bureau chairman Datuk Seri Ti Lian Ker said.

He said decisions affecting the country’s future should not be taken “with just one religion or race in mind.”

“The spirit of give-and-take based on tolerance and compromise that is the basis of our Federal Constitution must not be forgotten.

“Our Constitution is the result of ingenious creativity, where all complex issues of race and religion have been cleverly articulated and outlined,” he said in a statement yesterday.

He said any major decision involving the country should only be taken after discussions with the various segments of society.

On the Private Member’s Bill tabled by PAS president Datuk Seri Abdul Hadi Awang on Syariah Court amendments, Ti said there should be a committee to discuss the issue.

“Leaders like (former prime minister) Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi and (former Inspector-General of Police) Tun Haniff Omar should be roped in to help find solutions.

“This committee must be formed to draft a document to pave the way forward, out of the present political doldrums,” he said.

He added that the interests of all parties should be protected and all fears and anxieties overcome.

Ti commended the maturity with which discussions on the proposed Bill were handled.

“Both protagonist and antagonist have been treading carefully this time around.

“Credit must be given to them for their maturity in handling this highly emotive issue of the right to implement one’s religious obligations and the interpretations of the Federal Constitution, which is the supreme law of the land,” he said.

-The Star-