No reason Muslims can’t visit other houses of worship

JOHOR BARU: There is no reason why Muslims in the state cannot visit houses of worship of other faiths or their festivals, as long as they do not take part in their rituals or prayers, says the Sultan of Johor.

“This is very clear and I have complete trust in Muslims because their faith is strong and unshakable. I do not wish to dwell at length here. There is no need for any kind of polemic over this,” said Sultan Ibrahim Ibni Almarhum Sultan Iskandar.

His Majesty said racial and cultural tolerance was important in the state.

The guidelines issued by the Palace and the Johor Islamic Religious Council (MAIJ) were clear and there should be no confusion and speculation, he added.

Sultan Ibrahim said interfaith values, unity and understanding as espoused under the Bangsa Johor concept were important to him.

“This is how it is done in Johor. We respect non-Muslims and they, too, must respect Muslims. We don’t have a problem in Johor and I am proud of that because the Bangsa Johor concept is accepted by everyone here,” he said.

The Sultan also encouraged non-Muslims to visit mosques and to understand Islam better as it is a beautiful religion which promotes peace, tolerance and compassion.

“I encourage Muslims to invite non-Muslims to break fast together during the holy month of Ramadan.

“Explain to them the meaning of abstinence and the concept behind this practice, so non-Muslims understand and value Islam better,” he added.