Muslim Unity Over Gaza

Received several SMSs over the last few days, all calling for a boycott of popular American brands. Allegedly, these US companies supply funds to the Israelis, therefore, if we stop buying those products, this will mean less money for the Israelis, therefore less funds to buy weapons to wage war on the Palestinians. A boycott for "MUSLIM UNITY", the SMSs said.

Sounds straightforward enough, but another example of good intentions backed up by foolish intelligence. No wonder the Muslim world is in such disarray.

I replied to each SMS with the following:

"Do you realize that a boycott of the type you're asking for will only serve to hurt the thousands of Malaysian MUSLIMS who work for these companies and/or are part of these companies' supply chain? If your boycott is successful, it'll mean lost jobs, fewer hiring opportunities, wage losses, no bonuses, etc. In a climate of such economic uncertainty, your actions will potentially condemn our brothers and sisters to financial hardship. If you really care about the plight of Muslims, forward this SMS to your Muslim friends and family. Let us show some MUSLIM INTELLIGENCE, for once. Wassalam."

Brothers and sisters, the violence in Palestine saddens us all. But think with your head, not your heart.

ps. Just to further prove how twisted some minds are, i actually received a reply to my SMS from one person. It said (paraphrased):

"Yes, they may lose their jobs and livelihood, but thats the sacrifice they are making for Islam."

I rest my case. Muslim Unity indeed.