Non-Muslims’ views of co-existence with Muslims in Seremban, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia

For a nation with multi-cultural pluralistic society to maintain or promote peaceful coexistence, it is crucial to have, positive perception towards their counterparts. Therefore, studying their perception to figure out the current situation is essential to take necessary actions. In this regard, based upon sample survey and interviews, this article attempts to find out the perception of non-Muslims about co-existence with Muslims in Seremban in the state of Negari Sembilan, Malaysia. Such a study is warranted because of the plural nature of Seremban society whose stability depends upon harmonious relations between various ethnic and religious groups. The analysis of this research involved 100 respondents, all of whom are based in Seremban and its surrounding areas. It is composed of various educated segments, professionals and university students from different religious background such as Christians, Hindus and Buddhists. The study found that majority of non-Muslims hold positive opinion about their counterpart in this area which augurs well for the stability of the region and the country. Nevertheless, there exists a good number of people holding a negative opinion about Islam and Muslims implying, therefore, the need for more concerted efforts about improving the image of Islam and Muslims in Seremban and other parts of Malaysia.