Nga's Christmas event threatens interfaith harmony - Pas Youth

SHAH ALAM – Pas Youth has condemned Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming for allegedly organising a Christmas celebration at a government office that involved Muslim participation.

Pas Youth Information Chief Khairul Nadzir Helmi Azhar said that the event violated the principles of Islamic faith and went against the country’s religious sensitivity guidelines.

He emphasised that religious scholars and Islamic authorities have clearly stated that Muslims are prohibited from directly participating in religious celebrations of other faiths that contradict Islamic beliefs.

“This has been clearly outlined in Irsyad Al-Fatwa Series No 818 and the Guidelines for Muslims Participating in Religious Celebrations of Non-Muslims issued by the Malaysian Islamic Development Department (Jakim),” Khairul said in a statement.

He further slammed Nga’s actions as showing a lack of understanding of the fundamental principles of religious harmony that must be respected.

He expressed concern that such actions could stir controversy and threaten interfaith harmony in Malaysia.

Khairul called on Nga to cease any programmes or activities involving Muslim participation in religious celebrations of other faiths.

“We also urge the government to strengthen the guidelines on this matter and ensure that all ministers and government agencies adhere to them in order to maintain harmony and uphold Islam as the religion of the Federation.

"Firm action must be taken to prevent this from happening again in the future,” he added.

Khairul added that Pas Youth remains committed to defending the sanctity of Islam and protecting the sensitivities of Muslims in the country.

The controversy arose after a video surfaced showing Nga celebrating Christmas with ministry staff, including some Muslim employees.

The video, which included a performance of "Jingle Bells," triggered criticism from various quarters.