KUCHING: The guidelines issued by the Malaysian Islamic Development Department (JAKIM) regarding the participation of Muslims in non-Islamic celebrations have been deemed irrelevant for Sarawak, where unity among different religions and ethnicities has always been a priority.

Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, mentioned that the people of the region have long embraced a harmonious way of life based on tolerance and mutual respect, with no issues arising from celebrating religious festivities together.

Therefore, he stressed that there is no need to enforce overly strict guidelines that could restrict the freedom and harmony of the community.

“In Sarawak, we freely visit our Chinese friends during Chinese New Year, celebrate Christmas with our Christian friends, and join our Dayak friends for Gawai. There are no issues with this. What truly matters is our nawaitu (intention) and sincerity.

“I am very pleased that the Federal Cabinet, particularly Prime Minister, Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, has decided to set aside these guidelines, as they do not pose any problems or concerns,” he said when sharing his views with reporters after attending a dinner event here on Friday.

Dato Sri Abdul Karim also expressed confidence that Muslims in Malaysia, especially in Sarawak, have the wisdom and capability to make their own decisions without needing strict guidelines to dictate what they can or cannot do.

As such, he hopes JAKIM will review the matter and consider adopting a more open approach, in line with the long-standing harmony and freedom practised in Sarawak.

Previously, JAKIM had issued specific guidelines concerning the involvement of Muslims in festive celebrations, funeral ceremonies, visits, and events held at non-Islamic places of worship.

These guidelines are set to be finalised during the 126th meeting of the National Council for Islamic Religious Affairs (MKI), scheduled from February 25 to 27.

The guidelines cover aspects such as speeches or songs with propaganda elements, distribution of pamphlets, performances or remarks that insult or mock Islamic beliefs, the timing of events during Islamic prayer periods, and the location of events near mosques, suraus, Islamic cemeteries, waqf land, or premises that do not display non-Islamic religious symbols.

Additionally, event organisers must obtain approval from the relevant authorities and seek advice from Islamic religious authorities if the invitation involves Muslim leaders or individuals before hosting any celebrations. -UKASnews