The Malaysian Cabinet has rejected proposed guidelines that would have required Muslims to seek permission from religious authorities to attend non-Muslim events. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim emphasized existing religious guidelines and visited Batu Caves Temple to underscore his stance.
The Malaysia n Cabinet has rejected proposed guidelines that would have required Muslims to seek permission from religious authorities to attend non-Muslim events, including funerals and celebrations. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim emphasized that Muslims are already aware of religious guidelines regarding visiting non-Muslim sites and participating in non-Muslim prayers. He underscored his point by visiting Batu Caves Temple ahead of the Thaipusam festival.
Earlier, a joint statement by Senator Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar and Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Dagang outlined the guidelines as advisory, not policy. However, the guidelines sparked backlash due to impractical provisions that raised concerns about religious sensitivity. This marks the second time Na’im, the Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs), has made a public gaffe that has put the Madani government in an awkward position. Five months ago, the Cabinet rejected Na’im's proposal to make halal certification mandatory for restaurants and food companies that do not serve pork or alcohol, following Jakim's (The Department of Islamic Development Malaysia) suggestion. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi intervened to clarify that non-Muslim businesses should not be forced to obtain halal certification. Both incidents have drawn criticism towards Anwar, despite these being ministerial oversights unrelated to his decisions. Many mistakenly believe Na’im is a PKR Member of Parliament when he is actually a senator with no affiliation to the party.Na’im's blunders have politically damaged Anwar and the Madani government, as many citizens misunderstand that religious matters fall under the purview of the Rulers, not the Prime Minister. The Rulers welcomed Na’im's appointment in 2022 due to his credentials as a former lecturer, lawyer, Syariah Court judge, and holder of degrees from prestigious institutions like the International Islamic University, University of London, and Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia. He was seen as a refreshing change from his predecessor, PAS ideologue Idris Ahmad, known for his hardline views and push for hudud laws.However, Na’im's premature statements have led to these political setbacks. His recent proposal for guidelines regarding Muslim participation at non-Muslim events, including restrictions on songs, speeches, and performances deemed to have religious “propaganda” or potentially insulting to Muslims, sparked immediate concerns about potential limitations on Muslims attending funerals or places of worship.
Malaysia Cabinet Guidelines Muslims Religious Affairs Anwar Ibrahim Non-Muslim Events Batu Caves Thaipusam
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