KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 18 — Muslim clerics here agree that Muslims cannot attend non-Islamic events that are religious in nature as they could encourage polytheism and idolatry among the community.
But, they noted, Islam allows its followers to attend celebrations related to the customs and traditions of the non-Muslims as a show of respect to those of other faiths.
According to guidelines set by the Islamic Development Department of Malaysia (JAKIM), Muslims can attend ceremonies that do not promote rites that are contrary to the Islamic faith, are not accompanied by acts contrary to Islamic law, acts contrary to the moral and cultural construction of the country’s Muslim community, and are not linked to any actions which may affect the sensitivities of Muslims.
Perak Mufti Tan Sri Harussani Zakaria (picture) agreed that Muslims are allowed to attend functions celebrating the customs and cultures of other races as a mark of mutual respect for those of other faiths.
“We are all human beings, and we should respect one another, but matters pertaining to religion cannot be tolerated.
“However, if the celebration is about culture and tradition, like Chinese New Year and so on, then it is okay,” he said when contacted by The Malaysian Insider.
As examples of matters that cannot be compromised, Harussani pointed to the food consumed by Muslims and non-Muslims.
“Matters like these cannot be challenged, when it comes to halal food and so on — the guidelines must be adhered to,” he said.
Harussani charged at political parties for oftentimes politicising religious matters, saying many were using it to try and topple one another.
He stressed that religion should be free from politics.
“The problem now is that these parties are each trying to topple one another... When there is political rivalry... This is where the problem starts,” said Harussani, who recently expressed disappointment with PAS’s attendance at a Thaipusam celebration in Sungai Siput.
Former Perlis Mufti Dr Mohd Asri Zainal Abidin said Datuk Seri Najib Razak’s attendance of a similar Thaipusam ceremony at Batu Caves recently, which invoked anger among Muslim groups, was allowed by Islam as he had done so in his capacity as prime minister.
“The PM was present because of his duties... It is not a problem. Similarly for the policemen on duty to safeguard security at the function.
“He (Najib) merely attended and gave a speech, he did not participate in their religious rituals... It is part of his duty as the prime minister to ensure harmony in the country,” he told The Malaysian Insider.
Asri noted that while Muslims were not allowed to follow the preaching of other religions, they were still required to respect the various faiths.
“Things that are not allowed are like wearing religious clothing like a priest’s robe or clergy attire... or marking one’s body. That is illegal but if a Muslim wears traditional clothing like the kurta, it is not wrong,” he said.
“I believe the presence of national leaders at such occasions is only part of their work and they do not intend to participate in religious rituals,” he added.
Asri said confusion likely exists due to misunderstanding among the Muslim community who feel offended at the presence of their leaders at such functions.
“As steps to prevent this, organisers should provide guidelines on these issues and relevant parties should be informed of standard protocol allowing Muslim leaders to attend such events,” he said.
