Saravanan Tells Religious Minister To Be Sensitive Warns Of Repercussions

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MIC deputy president M Saravanan has responded to the Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Na’im Mokhtar, urging him to exercise caution when addressing sensitive issues that could disrupt the nation’s racial and religious harmony.
“Ministers must act responsibly and address arising issues in a diplomatic and considerate manner, particularly when they involve race and religion.
“The coalition government has consistently emphasised the importance of handling 3R (race, religion, and royalty) matters discreetly.
“However, the minister’s recent actions suggest a different approach - one that appears to seek political mileage rather than prioritising national unity,” he added in a statement.
Saravanan was responding to Naim telling detractors not to polemicise the proposed guidelines for Muslims attending non-Muslim events or celebrations to refrain from polemicising the matter, saying they were drawn up with noble intentions.
Proposed updates
Yesterday, the minister announced that event organisers at non-Muslim houses of worship may soon be required to seek approval from Islamic authorities before inviting Muslim leaders or individuals to attend festive celebrations, funerals, or any other gatherings on their premises.
Minister in the PM’s Department (Religious Affairs) Na’im MokhtarThese proposed updates to the existing guidelines regarding Muslim participation in such events are set to be finalised by the Muzakarah Committee of the National Council for Islamic Religious Affairs (MKI) by the end of the month.
The current guidelines, first endorsed by the MKI Fatwa Muzakarah Committee in 2005, govern Muslim attendance at non-Muslim festive celebrations.
The disclosure courted flak from various quarters, including Saravanan, who asked if this meant that Muslims need to seek permission to attend a non-Muslim friend’s funeral service.
In his latest statement, the Tapah MP said MIC is not politicising this issue but expressing deep concern over the potential impact of these new guidelines, which could strain the strong bonds among Malaysia’s diverse communities.
“This is not a case of mere speculation - the minister has confirmed that these proposals are under consideration. Such measures do not bode well for national unity and social cohesion.
“If the coalition government and its ministers continue down this path, they risk losing the trust and support of the people - Muslims and non-Muslims alike,” he added.
The proposed guidelines also courted criticism from DAP. - Mkini

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