The Thean Hock Keong temple association in Penang has been barred from holding a Hari Raya open house, an event it said was meant to “foster unity, strengthen ties of friendship, and reinforce harmony in the local community”.

However, the Penang Islamic Religious Department (JHEAIPP) classified the event as a Muslim religious activity.

“Since the Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebration...