“The use of the word ‘Islam’ in names must be restricted and protected” says Assembly of Mosque Youths.

From The Jakarta Post courtesy TROP

Malaysia women’s group sued over ‘Islam’ in name

Sean Yoong ,  The Associated Press ,  Kuala Lumpur   |  Mon, 03/22/2010 2:41 PM  |  World

Muslim activists filed a lawsuit Monday against a Malaysian women’s group, asking it to remove the word “Islam” from its name on the ground that it misleads people to believe it speaks for all Muslims.

The suit against Sisters in Islam, one of the most well-known non-government groups in this Muslim-majority country, comes after it angered conservative Muslims by criticizing Islamic Shariah laws that allow the caning of women for offenses such as drinking alcohol.

Numerous Muslim groups have in recent months accused Sisters in Islam of misinterpreting religious principles, highlighting a divide between Muslims who demand strict enforcement of Islamic morality laws and others who fear religious intolerance is threatening the moderate practice of their religion.

The lawsuit was filed by Malaysian Assembly of Mosque Youths, whose leader, Mohammad Nawar Ariffin, said Sisters in Islam never obtained formal approval for the name with the government’s registrar of societies.

“The use of the word ‘Islam’ in names must be restricted and protected,” Mohammad Nawar told The Associated Press. “The so-called Sisters in Islam uses the word to attract attention, but it issues statements that contradict what other Muslims believe. It causes confusion among Muslims who might think that the group represents Islam.”