Don’t blindly adopt pop culture events like Halloween, young Muslims told

 A deputy minister says social media trends could encourage people to follow foreign cultural practices without considering their compatibility with religious requirements.

Halloween is a cultural event in the United States and other countries, featuring children making house calls dressed in costume as shown in this file photo. (Envato Elements pic)

PETALING JAYA:

A deputy minister has urged Muslims, particularly the young, to avoid taking part in pop culture activities such as Halloween celebrations, which she said were becoming increasingly popular, particularly among young people.

Marhamah Rosli.

Marhamah Rosli, deputy minister for religious affairs, said the public should assess activities against Islamic principles before taking part in them as the activities could undermine their faith and belief in the oneness of Allah.

She said trends spread through social media could encourage people to follow foreign cultural practices without considering their compatibility with religious requirements, Bernama reported.

“My reminder is not just for young people but for all segments of society. Before doing anything, we must first ensure that it falls within the framework of Islamic law. This is very important because we must safeguard our faith and tauhid,” she said while on a visit to Kampung Kedai Buluh in Kota Bharu, Kelantan.

“Cultural events and festivals are now difficult to control. Whenever someone organises something and it goes viral, everyone wants to follow. So, let us take care of ourselves, because what we do today will shape future generations,” she said.

Marhamah said parents also played an important role in teaching their children what was permitted and prohibited under Islam, adding that there were many other activities they could enjoy without adopting cultural practices that could affect their faith.

Marriage syndicates in Thailand

Marhamah cautioned Malaysians planning to marry abroad to ensure that the person solemnising their marriage was accredited with Islamic authorities, to avoid problems when registering the marriage in Malaysia.

Those who use illegal syndicates to arrange marriages in southern Thailand risk facing religious and legal implications if their marriage solemnisation is not conducted by an accredited kadi, she said.

“In Malaysia, there is a list of accredited kadi. So, anyone planning to marry abroad must ensure that the kadi handling the marriage is accredited,” she said. “My advice to everyone planning to get married is to do so honestly and in accordance with the law. We should not think only about the marriage itself, but also about the lineage of any children born from it,” she told reporters. - FMT