THE Cabinet has agreed that the Malaysian Islamic Development Department (Jakim) provide advice to Muslims on the importance of safeguarding their faith in relation to new proposed guidelines for Muslims attending non-Muslim events or celebrations.
In a statement Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Naim Mokhtar and National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang said the Cabinet has agreed that Jakim may provide advice to Muslims on the importance of safeguarding their faith in relation to this issue.
“However, this advice does not constitute official policy. We must be reminded that any policies made must consider national unity and get cabinet permission first.
“Also, the National Unity Ministry will enhance the implementation of harmony dialogue to strengthen harmony and interaction among multi-religious Malaysia,” they said.
The statement further said an inclusive discussion that considers the sensitivities of all parties is crucial in fostering national unity.
“Therefore, all matters closely related to interfaith harmony will be further discussed in the Interfaith Harmony Committee meeting (JK HARMONI), which is co-chaired.
The first JK HARMONI meeting of 2025 is scheduled to take place this month, where views from all 24 religious representatives, including Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism, Christianity, Sikhism, Taoism, and Baha’I will be heard. – February 7, 2025
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