KUALA LUMPUR: Datuk Seri Wee Ka Siong (BN-Ayer Hitam) has raised concerns about whether the proposed guidelines for Muslims attending non-Muslim events or celebrations have been discussed by the Cabinet.
The MCA president noted that the written reply from Religious Affairs Minister Senator Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar has elicited various reactions from the public.
Referring to Chinese New Year celebrations, Dr Wee pointed out that while some may perceive it as religious, it is actually cultural.
He also mentioned Hokkien New Year celebrations, noting that some may have invited Muslim friends on Wednesday (Feb 5).
"Prayer items may have also already been set in place. But, we are not asking our Muslim guests to join in the prayers. How do we make a clear guideline on this?
"The most important thing is that racial harmony is preserved," he said during the debate on the motion of thanks on the royal address in Parliament on Thursday (Feb 6).
Dr Wee also questioned whether non-Muslim funerals need approvals from religious authorities if Muslims attend.
"I have Muslim relatives. When they come, they embrace us right away as we are family. Culture and religion... how are we going to separate them? Both have different perspectives," he added.
In a written reply on Wednesday (Feb 5), Mohd Na’im stated that the proposed guidelines would cover the involvement of Muslims in events at non-Muslim houses of worship.
Under the proposed rules, there can be no speeches or songs with religious "propaganda" or performances that would insult Muslims, and the premises cannot display religious symbols of faiths.
Mohd Na’im also mentioned that organisers would need permission from the relevant authorities and the "views" of Islamic authorities if their event involves Muslims.
Concerned parties, including religious groups and MPs, expressed concerns that such rulings could exacerbate religious divisions in the country.
Mohd Na’im later urged all parties to avoid turning the matter into a polemic, emphasizing that the guidelines are advisory and aimed at fostering "social and cultural" harmony among Malaysia’s multi-religious society.
