The Incorporated Trustees Of The Islamic Community Fund Of Hong Kong, commonly known as the Trustees have condemned the recent case of a Quran burning incident in Sweden and have issued a press release on July 1 2023 urging the Swedish government to take necessary action against “miscreants” and bring justice to society.
The incident involved Salwan Momika, an Iraqi refugee seeking to ban the Quran in Sweden, deliberately tore up and set fire to the Quran outside the Stockholm Central Mosque. He also placed a strip of bacon on the holy book and stomped on it. Accompanied by another unidentified man, Momika aimed to shock and provoke the Muslim community celebrating Eid al-Adha. However, their actions were mostly met with mockery and disinterest by the approximately 200 people gathered outside the mosque, according to reports by Al Jazeera.
The full press release is attached as a PDF and can be read below
The Trustees, in a strongly worded letter to the Swedish consulate, condemned the burning of the Holy Quran in Stockholm, Sweden, outside the Central Mosque on June 28, 2023, which coincided with the celebration of Eid-ul-Adha. This hurtful incident has deeply saddened Muslims in Hong Kong and around the world. The European Union and the Organization of Islamic [Cooperation] have also voiced their strong condemnation of the incident.
“This appalling act is not only a direct attack on the Muslim community but also on the values of religious tolerance and respect,” stated Saeed Uddin, chairman of the Trustees. “We stand united in condemning this despicable act and urge the Swedish government to take concrete steps to prevent such incidents in the future.”
The recent incident is distressingly reminiscent of similar occurrences that took place just six months ago in January 2023 and in April 2022. On both occasions, the Swedish authorities and security departments failed to take any action to halt these disrespectful acts against Islam and the Holy Quran.
“What is most disturbing is that the recent hurtful incident took place after permission was granted by a Swedish Court to anti-Islam elements, while the Swedish police remained inactive,” added Saeed Uddin. “The Swedish government must recognize the sanctity of all religions and their holy books, including Islam, the Bible, and the Torah. Disrespecting these identities under the pretext of freedom of speech weakens the foundations of any society.”
The Muslim community of Hong Kong calls upon the Government of Sweden to swiftly take action against the perpetrators and ensure they are brought to justice immediately. Reports in the media indicate that the miscreants have planned another hurtful incident in the near future, making immediate intervention by the Swedish government crucial to prevent further harm and restore harmony.
“We urge the Swedish government to protect the peaceful coexistence of the diverse Swedish community, which embraces people of all faiths and races,” emphasized Saeed Uddin. “It is vital for the government to intervene and uphold the values of peace, respect, and inclusivity that form the backbone of any progressive society.”
The Muslim community of Hong Kong stands in solidarity with the Muslim community in Sweden and reiterates its commitment to promoting interfaith dialogue, understanding, and religious harmony in all corners of the globe.
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