A set of proposed instructions that would outline the involvement of Muslims in Malaysia at non-Muslim events has sparked irrational discussion in the nation, with some critics decrying the action also as a minister cautioned against politicizing the matter.
In a parliamentary response on Tuesday ( Feb 4), MohdNa’im Mokhtar, minister of religious affairs, claimed that the Islamic Development Department ( JAKIM ) in Malaysia was working on specific guidelines for Muslims who attend non-Muslim events or celebrations, among others.  ,
The federal government organization that oversees Muslim politics in Malaysia is called JAKIM.
Under the proposed laws, there can be no songs or remarks with spiritual “propaganda” or shows that may attack Muslims. Organisers of these activities would also need to ask the appropriate government for permission before inviting Muslims to activities at a non-Muslim house of worship.  ,
Additionally, Muslim festivities must not be held on Fridays during the regular Muslim prayer days.  ,
The guidelines also specified that event location must not be close to a surau ( prayer hall ), mosque, Muslim cemetery or wakaf ( endowment ) land, and that the premises should not contain non-Islamic religious symbols.
MohdNa’im responded to a question from a Permatang Pauh Muhammad Fawwaz Mohamad Jan Member of Parliament ( MP ) who had asked the prime minister what the government’s position was on holding religious holidays in government buildings.
Fawwaz, a member of the Islamist party Parti Islam Se-Malaysia ( PAS ), had raised concerns about Muslims who needed to practice their faith during such events while maintaining racial harmony in the nation.  ,
These rules describe the role that Muslims play in non-Muslim celebrations. MohdNa’im remarked that Muslims ‘ participation in any party must not be accompanied by functions that might offend their sensibilities.  ,
The National Council for Islamic Religious Affairs ‘ meeting is scheduled to finish these proposed changes to the current rules for Muslim involvement in these situations by the end of this month.  ,
Malaysiakini reported that Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim had promised to discuss the matter at the Cabinet conference on Friday.  ,