PETALING JAYA: The new proposed guidelines for Muslims attending non-Muslim events is a troubling escalation of the government's overreach into personal and communal interactions, says Sisters in Islam (SIS).
The NGO said that at a time when Malaysia should be strengthening its multicultural identity, these new guidelines move Malaysians further from the vision of a united and harmonious society.
"Instead of promoting understanding and coexistence, these guidelines treat interfaith engagement as a threat rather than an opportunity for cultural exchange and mutual respect," the group said in a statement on Thursday (Feb 6).
SIS said that the policies could also be infringing the rights of non-Muslim communities as they restrict them from freely practising their faith and celebrating their traditions.
"The government’s role should be to facilitate understanding, not impose limitations that deepen societal fractures.
"We call on all Malaysians to reject policies that foster division and to advocate for a Malaysia that upholds the dignity and rights of all its people," SIS said.
On Wednesday (Feb 5), Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) Senator Datuk Dr Mohd Na'im Mokhtar announced that new guidelines were in the works to set out clear rules regarding the involvement of Muslims in non-Muslim festivities and funerals.
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.
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.
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.
