KUALA LUMPUR – Johor ruler Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar again reaffirmed that the recent fatwa (decree) passed in the state preventing Muslims from participating in other religious rituals is not against the “Bangsa Johor” concept.
Sultan Ibrahim said the fatwa issued by the Johor Islamic Religious Council yesterday was in no way in conflict with the inter-faith values of tolerance, unity and understanding as espoused under the Bangsa Johor concept.
“The fatwa only prohibits Muslims from taking part in other religious rituals. It is a guideline for them. They can still attend festive events of other faiths,” stressed His Majesty.
“Other religions must also respect Muslims’ sensitivities. It is a two-way street. We must be sensitive to each other’s religious obligations in order to get along,” he said.
Sultan Ibrahim noted that as all religions emphasise good values like compassion, respect, tolerance, moderation and kindness, Malaysians should focus on these common values rather than on our racial or religious differences.
“I hope with this explanation, we can put a stop to any confusion on the new fatwa as it only clarifies what is permissible to Muslims and forbidden in Islam,” he said.
“If you’re still confused, please see the state mufti for further clarification,” he said.
The fatwa in question prohibits Muslims from attending and participating in religious rituals of other faiths in the state.
Yesterday, in another statement, Sultan Ibrahim said various ulama (religious scholars) opined that it was “harus” (non-obligatory and unsinful) for Muslims to fulfill invitations of festive events of other faiths.
“For example, open houses or dinners in conjunction with non-Muslim festivities and the like,” the monarch said.
“However, it (the attendance) must abide by the guidelines set by the religious authorities...to ensure the faith of Islamic adherents are protected,” he said.
Similarly, The Star also reported that Sultan Ibrahim is due to attend Thaipusam celebrations at the Sri Balasubramaniar temple in Skudai, Johor.
The English news daily quoted the temple’s chairman Datuk S. Balakrishnan, who confirmed Sultan Ibrahim’s attendance for the Thaipusam celebrations.
“His Majesty will be coming to the temple to witness the celebrations at 11am this Sunday. Other state leaders will also be joining Sultan Ibrahim including Mentri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi.
“About 10,000 devotees will be present during the celebrations, which will be held in a grand manner following the easing of Covid-19 restrictions,” he said as quoted by The Star. – The Vibes, February 3, 2023
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