Country Profile: Malaysia

Malaysia gained it's independence in 1957 and the government type is constitutional monarchy. The constitution guarantees freedom of expression, however, this is not always upheld and enforced by the government. Ethnic Malay people are considered Muslim by the government and Islam is considered an intricate part of these peoples' lives. Other ethnic groups include Chinese, Indian, etc.

The sale and distribution of the Malay Bible is strongly discouraged. Starting in 2005, Bibles in the Malay language were required to have the words "Not for Muslims" on the front cover.

Those who convert from Islam to Christianity may be fined or imprisoned for "rehabilitation". Much pressure and opposition is faced by Christians in this land.

Please pray that Christians will be free to practice their faith and share the gospel with non-Christians. Also pray that our brothers and sisters will be able to have free access to Bibles.

Country Profile: Sudan

Sudan is a country of ethnic diversity (over 500 ethnic groups). Due to this variety in people groups, there are around 130 distinct languages. It has been estimated that 65% of Sudan population is Muslim. Around 25% of the remaining society is Christian.

The main populace of Muslim people is concentrated in the north. The Christians and animists as a whole, live in the south part of Sudan or in the Nuba mountain range. Sudan has been a state of civil war between Muslims and non-Muslims for fourteen years now.

The following links will take you to more articles on the country of Sudan:

http://www.persecution.org/suffering/countryinfodetail.php?countrycode=11&PHPSESSID=4f5eed1aa6e0d6a1a894dcde01389fab

http://www.persecution.net/sudan.htm

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sudan

Please pray for the Christians that are being caught between the cross-fire of the civil war that is raging in their land. Pray that the will stand strong against the persecution and that they will be able to shine as lights for the Lord.