No need to create guidelines for Muslims attending non-Muslim events - PM

KUALA LUMPUR: The Cabinet has decided today that there is no need to create guidelines on Muslim participation in the festive celebrations of other religions.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the decision was made at the Cabinet meeting this morning and will be presented to Sultan Nazrin Shah of Perak as the Chairman of the National Council of Islamic Religious Affairs (MKI).

"I believe that there is no need for such guidelines because Muslims already know their boundaries. Just like me attending this event here today (checking preparations for Thaipusam), I am not participating in the religious ceremony. (Digital Minister) Gobind Singh also often visits mosques in his area, but he does not participate in religious ceremonies. It's just normal (interactions).

"So, let's not complicate things or create unnecessary concerns among the people. I want to emphasise that this was the final decision made by the Cabinet this morning," he told reporters when asked about the issue after checking the preparation at Batu Caves temple ahead of the Thaipusam celebrations next Tuesday.

Prior to this, it was reported that the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) had taken the initiative to develop these guidelines to encourage harmonious social and cultural interactions among the multi-religious society in the country, as well as to serve as a reference for Muslims attending the celebrations or ceremonies of other religions respectfully, adhering to proper etiquette, and maintaining their Islamic faith.

The Prime Minister explained that although Malaysia is a country with Islam as its official religion, the interests of other races and religions in the country must also be safeguarded to maintain peace.

"What Muslims need to protect is their faith, as there are rules that must not be violated, but engaging with people of different religions in this multicultural and multi-religious society has never been an issue.

"If we want to ensure peace and harmony in this country, we must look after everyone," he said.

Meanwhile, Anwar said that during today's event at the temple, he was also briefed by the Batu Caves Temple chairman, Tan Sri R. Nadarajah, about a proposal to upgrade its hall and efforts to further boost tourism around the temple.

"We will assist and approve some funding for that, but I will look into it immediately so that this hall can become a multi-purpose hall that can be used by the Indian community. Tan Sri Nadarajah also mentioned that this hall will serve as a community hall, benefiting all people," he added.

Also present were Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo, Deputy Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister Datuk R. Ramanan and Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari.

-- BERNAMA

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