Page 36 - A Study of Traditional Chinese Religions in Malaysia: The Decline and the Path Towards Revitalization

2.5.2 Many respondents are not religiously knowledgeable

Based on the responses received, there are more respondents who confirmed that they
understand and practice the rituals of their religions than those who confirmed that they have

the relevant historical and philosophical knowledge of their religion. Less than 50 percent of
the respondents confirmed that they understand the history of their religion (see Figure 2.13).
Most of the respondents could not give a conclusive response (33%) while 20.5 percent

admitted that they do not understand their religion’s philosophy.

35.00% 33.00%
31.00%
30.00%

25.00%
20.00% 17.00%
15.50%
15.00% Total

10.00%
3.50%
5.00%
0.00%
Strongly Disagree Neutral Agree Strongly
disagree agree

Figure 2.13. Understanding religion’s philosophy.

Fewer respondents understand the history and development of their religion. Figure 2.14
shows only 42.5 percent confirmed that they have such knowledge while 25.5 percent
confirmed that they do not. The rest (32%) could not give a conclusive answer.

35.00% 32.00%
30.00%
30.00%

25.00%
19.50%
20.00%
15.00% 12.50% Total
10.00%
6.00%
5.00%
0.00%
Strongly Disagree Neutral Agree Strongly
disagree agree

Figure 2.14. Understand religion’s history and development.

Such replies are understandable since most of the respondents do not read scriptures or

books that concern their religion. Without such an exposure, it will be difficult for them to be
knowledgeable. Only 24 percent (see Figure 2.15) of respondents have read religious

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