UMNO Youth Chief Datuk Dr Akmal Saleh has called on the Melaka Islamic Religious Department (JAIM) to review a circular it reportedly issued, which bans Christmas decorations at Halal-certified eateries and hotels in the state.
Taking to Facebook, he said that the Halal status of a food or drink depends on its origin and how it is prepared, and has nothing to do with decorations.
Datuk Dr Akmal Saleh
Dr Akmal urges JAIM to reconsider a circular banning Christmas decorations at Halal-certified eateries and hotels
In the video, he also attached a screenshot of the viral circular by JAIM.
Dr Akmal, who is also the assemblyperson for Merlimau, added that he had consulted with several muftis on the matter, who agreed with him.
“For example, if food and drink are prepared in a church by non-Muslims, but the source is Halal, and it is prepared properly, then they are still Halal,” he stated.
The viral circular by JAIM
“This is unfair”
Dr Akmal added that he has tried to discuss the matter with the Melaka State Islamic Religious Affairs Exco, Datuk Rahmat Mariman. He is also kindly requesting JAIM to reconsider the decision.
“For me, this is unfair. Christmas decorations won’t turn food that is Halal certified into Haram.”
“For example, what would be wrong with a Halal-certified restaurant owned by non-Muslims putting up ‘Merry Christmas’ decorations?” the UMNO Youth Chief stressed.
You can watch the full video here:
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