SATIRE | They say parables are harmless little stories, but in today’s climate even a bedtime fable can get you trolled, misquoted, or reported faster than you can say “once upon a time.”

It could also be misinterpreted as insulting their religious brethren because once the white Zucchetto-styled caps sit atop their heads, and their robes flow, the intensity increases.

So, let’s dress this one up in satire, with no camels, no deserts, and no dunes to avoid photographs and media coverage of police reports.

On a frosty night, the leader tucked himself in, proud of his modest canvas castle. Then came the creature of convenience, nose-first at the flap, pleading for warmth like a freeloading guest at a “kenduri kahwin” (wedding feast).

“Just a corner, just a cushion,” it whimpered...