KUCHING: The recent proposed guidelines regarding Muslims attending non-Muslim events highlight concerns about religious adherence, while raising questions about inclusivity and interfaith relations.
Kota Sentosa assemblyman Wilfred Yap Yau Sin said in many multicultural nations, interfaith interactions help foster harmony and mutual understanding.
“When restrictions are placed on participation in one another’s celebrations or gatherings, it risks deepening divisions rather than promoting goodwill.
“While we should respect the right of religious authorities to guide their followers, we also hope that any regulations will encourage dialogue rather than create further separation,” he said in his Facebook post.
He urged all Sarawakians to continue showing kindness and respect, regardless of differing religious or cultural beliefs.
“We should uphold our faith, culture and traditions while at the same time strengthen unity in diversity so that relationships between our diverse multi ethnic and multi religious communities remain built on trust and mutual understanding in line with the social inclusivity objective under Post Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030),” he added.
He hopes that the state government will continue to be steadfast and resolute on the importance of mutual respect, understanding, and religious freedom in a diverse society.
The government is set to issue new guidelines for Muslim participation in Non-Muslim celebrations and ceremonies, says Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Mohd Na’im Mokhtar.
He stated that the guidelines will be finalised during the 126th Meeting of the Muzakarah Committee of the National Council for Islamic Religious Affairs Malaysia (MKI), scheduled to take place from Feb 25 to 27.
“Another guideline will be issued, namely, ‘Guidelines on the participation of Muslims in celebrations and funeral ceremonies of Non-Muslims, as well as visits and the organisation of events in Non-Muslim houses of worship.
“These guidelines outline the participation of Muslims in non-Muslim celebrations,” he said.
