Penang Mufti urges govt to call off Ed Sheeran's concert
GEORGE TOWN - Penang Mufti Datuk Seri Dr Wan Salim Wan Mohd Noor says it is unfortunate that an artist from outside the country who is a supporter of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) is allowed to hold a concert in the country.
He was referring to British singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran's '+ - = ÷ x Tour' which is expected to head to Malaysia, next month.
Salim urged the government through the Communications Ministry and Digital Ministry to call off the concert and asked that the ministries take into consideration the muftis' opinions on the syariah law.
"As a mufti, I feel responsible to urge the government through the relevant ministries to immediately cancel the permission to hold the concert.
"I ask the relevant ministries to respect the views of the muftis regarding the syariah law, especially the prohibition on activities supporting the LGBT community, which is not based on the ijtihad of scholars but is based on the clear texts in the Quran and Hadith," Salim said when contacted, today.
He added that as a predominantly Islamic country, Malaysia should not open the door for concerts to be held by artists who support sinful practices.
Salim said this was not only prohibited by Islamic law but also by all religions.
"It is deeply regrettable that our country allows for such concerts involving foreign artists who are said to be supporters of the LGBT community.
"It is the responsibility of the government to prevent wrongdoing as clearly stated in the Quran, Surah Al-Haj: 41," he said.
He further stated that every Muslim knew that Islam rejected all same-sex relationships that were not based on valid marriage.
"Religions oppose LGBT activities because they lead the country and the people to the brink of destruction.
"Therefore, I urge all Muslims in this country to oppose the proposed concert. Remember that Muslims are prohibited from cooperating in matters (that lead to) sin or vice as stated in the Quran," he added.
Earlier, it was reported that Ed Sheeran will hold a tour in several Asian countries, including Malaysia.
The concert is scheduled to take place at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium on Feb 24.
