Christians in Malaysia deny accusations they are trying to create "Christian state"

Malaysia's government says it is investigating claims found on a blog that Christians are plotting to make Christianity the official religion of the majority Muslim country. The accusation was made by a Muslim blogger, and repeated in the main Malay daily, which is owned by ruling party.

“The Home Minister was not prudent, [saying] this is a serious allegation, and [the government] will take action,” says Father Lawrence Andrew, the editor of the Catholic weekly Herald.

He said the allegations are absurd, pointing out Christians make up less than 10% of the population.

Father Andrew said the government is trying to create controversy to shore up support with its mostly Muslim supporters.

“They are beginning to feel they are losing the popularity that they once enjoyed,” he told Vatican Radio. “Because they are losing the popularity, they would enjoy some uneasiness that would create confusion – that would create fear – in the people.”

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