MELAKA: The circular on the ban of Christmas decorations at halal-certified hotels must be reviewed, says Umno Youth chief Datuk Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh.
In a statement Friday (Dec 19), the Merlimau assemblyman said he disagreed with the circular issued by the Melaka Religious Affairs Department (JAIM).
"What's wrong with a halal-certified restaurant owned by non-Muslims putting up festive decorations?
"As long as the food and beverages don't come from forbidden sources it remains halal,” he said.
Dr Akmal, who is also the Melaka rural development, agriculture and food security committee chairman, said he had discussed the matter with several religious figures, who agreed that the halal status of food and drinks depends solely on their origins and preparation.
“Hence, decorations have nothing to do with halal certification,” he added.
Earlier, Melaka education, higher learning and religious affairs committee chairman Datuk Rahmad Mariman clarified that hotels here are permitted to continue displaying Christmas decorations, with restrictions applying only to kitchens and restaurants that hold halal certification.
He explained that a circular issued to hoteliers regarding Yuletide-related decorations does not impose a blanket ban across hotel premises, but is limited strictly to food preparation areas and dining outlets that have been accorded halal certification.
“There is no prohibition on decorations in other parts of a hotel, including the lobby and common areas.
“Hotel management is free to decorate areas within their premises that do not carry halal certification," he said.
Rahmad was responding to public concern following a circular issued by the Melaka Islamic Religious Department (JAIM), which outlined guidelines on decorations in kitchens and restaurants within halal-certified hotels.
He stressed that the guidelines are intended to preserve the integrity and clarity of halal certification, and are not meant to prevent any community from celebrating its respective festive occasions.
