1969 was a year etched in history for vastly different reasons on opposite sides of the globe. In the United States, the Woodstock symbolised a cultural revolution by bringing together over 400,000 people in a massive music festival that celebrated peace, love, and music. Meanwhile, the moon landing on 20 July not only showcased American ingenuity and technological prowess but also cemented US dominance in the space race, marking a significant achievement in mankind’s scientific exploration (and Cold War rivalry).

Putting those events in plain words raises a simple question – why do people go so readily and easily against Islam and its followers? Are those only a few sporadic mistakes or misunderstandings about Islam and Muslims?

Memang benar visa atau permit haji bukan rukun atau syarat sah haji tetapi mentaati pemerintah adalah wajib dalam perkara kebaikan. Tindakan pemerintah Arab Saudi adalah berdasarkan maslahah dan menghindari mafsadah adalah satu tuntutan agama. Ia selaras dengan kaedah fiqh yang menegaskan: Tindakan pemerintah mestilah tertakluk kepada maslahah terhadap rakyat.

Pada masa kini, umat Islam masih lagi berpecah dan berselisih, serta gagal mencari titik temu dalam mewujudkan perpaduan bersama. Tidak kira isu fundamental atau isu cabang, tiada persepakatan dalam kalangan mereka, sama ada pada peringkat agamawan atau orang awam.