PETALING JAYA: Penang mufti Sukki Othman has advised Muslims to refrain from taking pictures with Christmas trees and decorations if it could lead to misunderstandings about their religious stance.
While the permissibility of taking photos with Christmas decorations depends on the intention and context, he said it is better to exercise caution in such matters.
Sukki said Christmas trees and decorations are generally associated with Christian celebrations and pictures with these items could be misconstrued as endorsing another religion’s celebration.
“Taking pictures with these decorations might be considered haram if it appears to support or celebrate another religion as it contradicts Islamic beliefs,” Kosmo quoted him as saying.
“However, if the picture is intended solely for aesthetic reasons, memories or cultural expression, without any intention to endorse the religious celebration, it may be permissible.”
As such, Sukki said Muslims should maintain a good image and avoid actions that could lead to misinterpretations or misconceptions.
“Focus on your intention and be careful with actions that could lead to misinterpretation of Islamic principles. It is more important to exercise caution in matters relating to faith.”
The increasing trend of Muslims sharing selfies or videos with Christmas decorations has raised concerns, particularly on social media.
PAS Youth vice-chief Hanif Jamaluddin yesterday took issue with a Christmas celebration organised by the housing and local government ministry as it involved Muslim staff.
Hanif said the minister, Nga Kor Ming, should understand that Muslims were prohibited from getting directly involved in celebrations of faiths that went against Islamic teachings.
However, FMT reported that a source within the ministry had said they did not force any of its personnel to attend the Christmas function.
The source also said the Christmas carollers who performed at the event were East Malaysian Christians.
