PM: Cabinet decided new non-Muslim event guidelines not required

Summary

• Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim says the cabinet has decided that the proposed guidelines for Muslims participating in events at non-Muslim places of worship are not required.

• He says Muslims know their limits and there is no need to complicate things.

• Anwar adds he would present the cabinet’s decision to Deputy Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Sultan Nazrin Shah.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said the cabinet has decided that the proposed guidelines for Muslims participating in events at non-Muslim places of worship are not required.

He said that the guidelines are unnecessary as Muslims know their limits.

“Like now, I attended a function at Batu Caves but I didn’t participate in their religious event. (Digital Minister) Gobind (Singh Deo) always visits a mosque in his constituency but he doesn’t participate in religious activities.

“This is normal and there is no need to complicate things until creating unease among the people.

“And I must stress the decision made by the cabinet earlier today,” he said during a press conference at Batu Caves, Selangor, today.

In a written reply to the Dewan Rakyat on Tuesday, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Na’im Mokhtar said the government is planning to introduce the new guidelines.

Among others, event organisers are to seek permission from religious authorities if the event includes Muslims, and the events must not contain elements that could offend Muslim sensitivities.

READ MORE: KINIGUIDE | Interfaith events: Old rules, new proposal, royal precedents

Following backlash, Na’im said yesterday that the guidelines were still under review.

Earlier today, Na’im, in a joint statement with National Unity Minister Aaron Ago Dagang, acknowledged the matter has raised confusion among Malaysians.

“As such, the cabinet had agreed that the Islamic Development Department (Jakim) could advise Muslims on the importance of preserving their faith on such matters.

“However, the advice cannot be construed as a policy. We must be reminded that any policies made must consider national unity and get cabinet permission first.

“At the same time, the National Unity Ministry will enhance the implementation of harmony dialogue to strengthen harmony and interaction among multi-religious Malaysia,” they said.

‘Mingling has never been a problem’

On that note, Anwar said he would present the cabinet’s decision to Deputy Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Nazrin Shah soon.

While Islam is the official religion of the federation, the Tambun MP reminded all quarters that Malaysia is a multi-ethnic and multi-religious country.

As such, he emphasised the need for the nation’s administration to look into every community’s needs and aspirations.

“So, I don’t see why we need such guidelines, explanations or whatever.

“What is important is for Muslims to safeguard their faith… there are rules we cannot breach, but when it comes to mingling around with other communities, there has never been a problem.

“So, as for the proposed guidelines, it’s no longer an issue as the cabinet has decided on it and I will present it to Sultan Nazrin,” Anwar added.

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