Outspoken Muslim convert-turned-preacher Ridhuan Tee Abdullah today threw his support behind Rayani Air, the “shariah-compliant” full service airline launched as such last month.
Ridhuan, who has made a name for himself by defending the rights of the Malay-Muslim community in Malaysia and for antagonising supposed “ultra kiasu” non-Muslim detractors of the Muslim agenda, claimed that Rayani Air was being watched over by Allah, even though the airline’s owners are “uncircumcised” non-Muslims.
In a column for Sinar Harian entitled “Terbanglah Setinggi Mungkin” (“Fly As High As You Can”), Ridhuan heaped praise for Rayani Air’s decision not to serve pork or alcohol on its flights, in order to be in line with Islamic dietary principles, and for designing stewardess uniforms that are compliant with Islamic modes of dress.
“For so long, I’ve advocated that we follow the example set by [Royal Brunei Airlines]. 30% of the people in that country are non-Muslim. How could they accept it? The answer is simple: the leaders in Brunei have willpower,” Ridhuan wrote.
The preacher argued that non-Muslim Malaysian companies should adhere to shariah principles on the basis that Malaysia is an “Islamic nation”, with Islam enshrined as the official religion of the Federation.
“[Islam] should be respected by all. Islam respects all other religions, as long as they do not meddle in our affairs.
“If we profess to belong to the greatest religion, then support Rayani Air. If we don’t, then we’re a sorry people indeed,” he writes.
He also railed at the Malay executives working in other airlines for standing idly by while their companies continue to objectify women, serve non-halal food and drinks, and promote an unIslamic lifestyle to travellers who want to experience Malaysia’s “Islamic” culture.
“To Rayani Air, wa caya sama lu (you have my confidence). Fly as high as you wish,” Ridhuan writes.
“I am sure your passengers will feel safe flying with you. I will keep choosing you. Allah is with you, even if your owners are not circumcised.”
Rayani Air was founded by the husband-and-wife team of Ravi Alagendrran and his wife Kathiyani Govindan.
