KUALA LUMPUR — The Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim) will call in a Muslim individual alleged to have taken part in the “Interfaith Water Ceremony” to clarify his involvement.
Director-General Datuk Dr Sirajuddin Suhaimee stressed that the person in question is not affiliated with Jakim, Bernama reported.
He added that the department had also engaged with the owner of a Facebook account who claimed Muslims were present at the event, in order to ensure a balanced and thorough review.
“This matter is being examined seriously by Jakim,” Sirajuddin said in a statement.
He explained that Jakim is cooperating with state religious authorities and other relevant agencies to ensure the investigation is conducted comprehensively and in line with existing legislation.
“Jakim remains committed to preserving the sanctity of the Islamic faith. Any party with information is urged to lodge an official report with the Royal Malaysia Police as well as the state Islamic religious authorities,” he added.
The Facebook account holder had earlier shared a post titled Muslim Terlibat Dalam Dakyah Sesat Interfaith Water Ceremony (“Muslims Involved in Deviant Interfaith Water Ceremony”), alleging that during the Loving Couple Festival at a hotel, a church hosted an ‘Interfaith Water Ceremony’ involving joint prayers with leaders of other faiths.
However, the Penang Islamic Religious Affairs Department (JHEAIPP) later clarified that the programme referenced in the post was held seven years ago at a hotel in Seberang Jaya.
The department noted that the event had been officially reported at the time and covered by local media, which highlighted its focus on celebrating and honouring married couples from diverse ethnic backgrounds. – December 24, 2025