COMMENT | Malacca became a great port 500 years ago because it welcomed traders of all races and religions. That was the source of its wealth and power.

Yet in the 21st century, the Malacca Islamic Affairs Department (Jaim) banned Christmas decorations at halal restaurants.

For a state that depends on tourism revenue, this doesn't seem like a wise way to usher in Visit Malaysia Year 2026.

Did Jaim fear that Muslims would get “confused”, which is the word often used, about their religion if they saw Santa Claus and his reindeer sleigh?

Yet when I go to malls around Kuala Lumpur, I see many Muslims happily posing for photos with Yuletide decor.

Surely their faith is strong enough to withstand the allure of jingle bells and gingerbread.

Perhaps Malacca’s religious bureaucrats have...