MINISTER in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs), Datuk Mohd Na’im Mokhtar, has called on local celebrities to observe Islamic guidelines on attire and conduct, emphasising their influence as role models for young Malaysians.
He said public figures carry significant responsibility and should embody behaviour consistent with Islamic teachings and Eastern cultural values.
“First, I very much hope that our celebrities will be able to show the best example, complying with the rules of life as Muslims and observing our Eastern customs and etiquette so that we can present ourselves well,” he said. “From the enforcement perspective, we will examine any violations of regulations or enactments. In the context of religious enforcement, we will look at the relevant shariah criminal acts or enactments if any offence is committed.”
Mohd Na’im made the remarks after attending the convocation ceremony of the Federal Territories Islamic Religious Council Professional College (KP MAIWP).
He noted that the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) had previously issued guidelines on dressing and appearance, but he would be requesting the JAKIM Director-General and the Federal Territories Mufti to review them to ensure they remain relevant.
However, he stressed that compliance alone is insufficient, saying change “must come from the celebrities’ own conscience in embodying the manners and values of Eastern society”.
In a separate development, Tabung Haji (TH) has introduced a new health module within its basic Hajj courses to comply with tightened health requirements imposed by the Saudi government for the 1447H/2026 Hajj season.
Mohd Na’im said the strengthened rules require pilgrims to be in full physical health before departure. The new module provides guidance on physical preparation, including stamina-building activities such as walking and hill-climbing, which have shown encouraging participation.
“I understand that every month, TH gives awards to any pilgrims who receive Hajj offers and attend the courses, where they must demonstrate the health routines they are undertaking,” he said. “Some walk more than 10,000 steps a day, climb hills and so on. Alhamdulillah, indirectly, we are helping to educate them to maintain their health.”
He said these measures are essential to ensure smooth and safe pilgrimages.
On 19 October, Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah announced stricter health conditions for pilgrims, effective for the 1447H/2026 season.
TH Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Mustakim Mohamad, said the requirements include being free from infectious diseases, serious illnesses or uncontrolled chronic conditions, and being physically capable of performing the pilgrimage independently.
Asked about the progress of Hajj offers issued in stages since 24 October, Mohd Na’im said selected depositors are currently undergoing mandatory health screenings. - November 15, 2025
