Malaysia PM Abandons Controversial Plan for Guidelines Concerning Muslims Attending non-Muslim Events

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has withdrawn a controversial proposal for guidelines governing Muslim participation in non-Muslim events, following significant public backlash, The Straits Times reported. Anwar announced the decision on February 7, stating that Muslims inherently understand the “dos and don’ts” of their faith.

The controversy began after Islamic Affairs Minister Na’im Mokhtar suggested in Parliament on February 4 that new guidelines were being finalized, requiring event organizers to seek permission from authorities if Muslims were involved. Critics argued that such measures would undermine personal religious responsibility and disrupt Malaysia’s interfaith harmony.

In light of the backlash, the Cabinet clarified that while the Islamic Development Department (Jakim) could offer advice, it would not constitute official policy. An interfaith committee will further discuss the issue in February. This incident marks another challenge for the Anwar administration amid ongoing debates over Islamic governance in Malaysia.