Happy Thaipusam, says Religious Affairs Minister while reminding Muslims not to participate in the ceremonial rituals

PETALING JAYA: The Unity Government wishes happy Thaipusam to the non-Muslim community who celebrate it but reminds Muslims that they are advised not to participate in any of the rituals, says Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar (pic).

The Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) said Thaipusam involves rituals performed in religious houses of worship and the advice was based on the guidelines by the Federal Territory Mufti Associate Prof Datuk Dr Luqman Haji Abdullah.

“The Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) calls on all Malaysians to respect the celebrations of every religion in this country because it is the basis of a harmonious life between different faiths.

"Islam also calls for Muslims to always maintain harmony in society.

“Since Thaipusam is a religious worship event specific to its followers, Muslims are advised not to get involved or participate in non-Muslim religious worship ceremonies,” he said in a statement Saturday (Feb 4).

Meanwhile, the mufti, in a statement, said while Islam promotes good relationships regardless of religion, the faith also puts a limit when it comes to religious rituals.

“With this principle, Muslims are prohibited from participating in any non-Islamic religious celebration rituals because it is against the principles of Islamic faith.

“This office calls on Muslims to adhere to this principle by understanding the boundaries in the interaction between Muslims and non-Muslims as well as the obligation to do good to fellow human beings,” Dr Luqman said.