KUALA LUMPUR – The Cabinet will deliberate on the proposed guidelines regarding Muslim participation in events at non-Muslim houses of worship in its meeting tomorrow, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim confirmed today.
“We will discuss that in the Cabinet meeting tomorrow,” he said briefly when asked about the matter after attending the launch of Audits on Government-Linked Companies at the Putrajaya International Convention Centre.
The government is reportedly working on a framework that will outline protocols for Muslims attending celebrations, funerals, and ceremonies at non-Muslim places of worship. This includes visits and other events involving interfaith gatherings.
The proposed guidelines suggest that event organisers must obtain approval from Islamic authorities before inviting Muslims to non-Muslim festive events or funerals. Besides that, Muslims are advised to avoid participating in activities that could conflict with Islamic values, such as speaking or distributing religious materials from other faiths. Additionally, events should not be held near mosques or Muslim cemeteries, and non-Muslim religious symbols should be kept out of the event venues.
Previously, Religious Affairs Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Mohd Na’im Mokhtar stated that the guidelines aim to foster social and cultural harmony in Malaysia’s multireligious society. He emphasised that they are meant to help Muslims navigate interfaith events while ensuring their participation aligns with Islamic principles and proper etiquette.
The updated guidelines are set to be finalised by the Muzakarah Committee of the National Council for Islamic Religious Affairs (MKI) by the end of the month.
The existing framework, known as the Guidelines for Muslims Attending Non-Muslim Festive Celebrations, was endorsed by the MKI Fatwa Muzakarah Committee in 2005.
However, some groups have raised concerns over the new requirements, particularly the need for official approval and ensuring that such events do not contain elements deemed sensitive to Muslims. – February 6, 2025