The Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim) wants men and women to be separated at concerts in an updated entertainment guidelines for Muslims.

The guidelines were approved at the national fatwa committee meeting on Feb 10 and 11.

The update was made in response to a January incident where a K-pop boy band hugged tudung-clad teenage Muslim girls on stage during a mini-concert in Kuala Lumpur, outraging Muslims conservatives.

Previously, the guidelines on concerts or "entertainment programmes" were governed by six criteria namely:

1) good intentioned

2) held at suitable location

3) takes into account Muslim sensitivities

4) no vice activities

5) not provocative or prejudice

6) no elements of worship against Islam.

However, under the new guidelines, the rules almost doubled to 11.

The new guidelines also banned the mingling of male and female during rehearsals for an entertainment event.

‘Honourable character’

Previously, the old guidelines on the performing artistes is only confined to their conduct during an entertainment event, but the new guidelines also require them to have an "honourable character" even when not performing.

It went on to state that the artistes cannot have been convicted of any crime under civil or syariah law.

The updated document also bans excessive accessories and make-up.

The guidelines even state the types of musical instruments that can be used, which is similar to instruments allowed in a wedding or festivities under syariah law.

New guidelines

 

Old guideline