KUALA LUMPUR February 7, 2025 – The federal government of Putrajaya has announced their plans in introducing new guidelines that regulates the participation of Muslims in Non-Muslim organized events, celebrations or ceremonies.

Religious Affairs Minister Datuk Dr. Mohd Na’im Mokhtar stated that the newly introduced guidelines, overseen by the Department of Islamic Religious Affairs Malaysia (JAKIM), aim to prevent Muslims from engaging in sensitive matters.

The MKI are to finalize these new guidelines in a meeting that is taking place end of month, between February 25 and 27. He also emphasized how this initiative will complement prior existing guidelines, although the contradicting ones would be considered redundant.

Key Provisions

• Events should be held outside of Muslim prayer times.
• Events should not be carried out out during Muslim prayer times.
• Event locations must not be situated near a surau, mosque, Muslim cemetery, or wakaf (endowment) land.
• Prohibition of materials that promote other religion agendas.

He also added, “The premises of the events must not display any non-Muslim religious symbols.”

Additionally, this guideline requires event organizers to obtain approval from the relevant authorities and seek the views of Islamic Authorities when inviting Muslim leaders or participants to festivals, funerals, or events held at non-Muslim places of worship.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the Cabinet will hold a discussion circulating this initiative on Friday, when asked about the proposal. – The Star

Although the news are already being perceived in a bad light, Na’im strongly highlighted the main purpose of this guideline, which was to further strengthen ties and foster mutual respect among Malaysians.

“Through the guidelines currently being developed, Muslims will be able to attend the celebrations or ceremonies of other religious followers in an orderly manner, adhering to proper etiquette while preserving their Islamic faith and beliefs,” he stated in a Facebook post.

Various of inputs has been directed towards this implementation, as the public pointed out how one’s faith should not be shaken by attending such events. In conjunction to Thaipusam, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim will also take a visit to Batu Caves tomorrow, as per temple management invitation.