Fatwa Council guidelines: Muslims can't join events with Christmas trees

Summary

• 2005 National Fatwa Council guideline imposes strict criteria on non-Muslim festive events that can be attended by Muslims.

• The guidelines also prohibit religious decorations, including Christmas trees.

PAS is continuing to hammer DAP over a Christmas celebration at the Housing and Local Government Ministry.

Central to their argument is that minister Nga Kor Ming had not complied with a 2005 guideline issued by the National Fatwa Council on Muslims attending non-Muslim festive celebrations.

According to the document, there are four main criteria to determine whether or not a Muslim can attend a celebration.

Criteria 1: No ceremonies that are against the Islamic faith

The document defines this as a matter, act, saying, or situation that if done, can impact the faith of Muslims.

One of the examples cited is that there should not be any religious symbols such as crosses, “candles”, or Christmas trees.

It said there must also not be any singing of religious songs or any speeches or signals that praise non-Muslim faiths.

This example is the one being cited by PAS Youth to show that singing carols to a crowd where Muslims were present had violated the guideline.

However, the guideline document on the Islamic Development Department’s website does not make it clear whether or not Muslims are barred from joining in on singing or giving speeches praising other faiths, or if it can’t be done in the presence of Muslims.

Criteria 2: No actions that are against the Islamic faith

The document defines this as a matter, action, saying, or situation which if done is against Islamic teachings that are practised by Muslims.

Examples cited include wearing red like Santa Claus or other religious garments, serving food or drink that can be intoxicating, having decorations like church bells, Christmas trees, or the cracking of coconuts.

Other examples include events that have elements of gambling and worship.

It is not clear from the document in regards to clothing, whether it is merely barred Muslims from wearing such clothes, or if Muslims can’t attend events where such clothes are worn.

Criteria 3: The event does not contain behaviour that is against the morals and culture of Muslim society.

Examples cited include unrestrained mingling, immodest dressing, music that has lyrics of worship or is profane, and programmes such as beauty pageants or cockfighting.

Criteria 4: The event does not touch on the sensitivities of Muslims.

Examples cited include speeches or songs that preach non-Muslim faiths, speeches that insult Muslims and Islam, or performances that aim to insult Muslim beliefs.

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