Malacca Dap Youth Questions Ban On Christmas Deco In Halal Premises

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Malacca DAP Youth criticised a directive issued by the Malacca Islamic Religious Department (Jaim), which banned Christmas decorations in halal-certified hotels and food premises in the state.
The wing said that while it respects the importance of halal certification to the Muslim community, the directive goes beyond Jaim’s authority by regulating cultural expressions of other communities.
“It also creates confusion for businesses and threatens Malacca’s tourism-driven economy and reputation as an inclusive destination,” said Malacca DAP Youth in a statement today.
In the directive issued on Dec 16, sighted by Malaysiakini, halal-certified kitchens and hotels cannot have Christmas decorations as it is a religious festival, not a cultural one.
The directive mentions that it could raise issues in relation to Muslims’ faith.
The letter was signed by Jaim director Azhan Samat @ Limat, who is also the state halal verification panel chairperson.
Malacca townNarrow, superficial understanding
On that note, the DAP Youth wing emphasised that Christmas has long been observed in Malaysia as a cultural and social celebration.
To suddenly label festive decorations as a religious threat reflects a narrow and superficial understanding of Christmas and risks undermining interfaith harmony, it added.
“Hotels, food and beverage outlets, and international brands have invested heavily in seasonal decorations and promotions.
“Implementing this restriction weeks before Christmas disrupts operations, marketing campaigns, and business confidence,” said Malacca DAP Youth.
It also said that state executive councillor Allex Seah Shoo Chin has raised the matter with Malacca Chief Minister Ab Rauf Yusoh.
Malacca Islamic Religious Department“The state executive council will deliberate on the matter in their next meeting,” it added.
A step backwards
On a related matter, Ayer Keroh assemblyperson Kerk Chee Yee urged the state government to clarify the matter to the public.
“If this is true, it is a step backwards for Malacca,” he said on Facebook today.
He pointed out that local hotels receive guests from various cultural backgrounds, adding that even government offices are decorated accordingly to celebrate festivities, in line with respecting Malaysia’s diversity.
“We cannot pride ourselves as a tourism state if we allow such a directive to take effect.
“I urge the state administration to correct this and instruct Jaim to rescind the directive,” Kerk added.
- Mkini

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