A local tattoo artist is going viral after sharing the dilemma she faces whenever Muslim clients walk through her door asking to get inked.
“I thought Muslims weren’t allowed to get tattoos”
In a candid confession that’s been making rounds online, @leishiadelaide opened up about the uncomfortable position she finds herself in, torn between making a profit and being mindful of what is considered haram for Muslims.
I always thought Muslims aren’t allowed to get tattoos. And on top of that, tattoos stay with you until you die.”
She acknowledged that tattoos are permanent, a lifelong commitment on your skin which makes the situation all the more complicated when clients come from a faith where the practice is prohibited.
Drew her own line
Despite wanting the business, the OP has drawn her own personal line.
Many Muslims come and ask whether I can tattoo them or not. It puts me in a tough spot because I want the income, but I also can’t bring myself to do it.”
What’s particularly striking is the nuanced stance she takes. She explained that her approach isn’t a blanket refusal, it actually depends on the client’s situation:
“I can only say ‘Sorry, if you don’t have any tattoos yet, I can’t do it, because this is genuinely something that’s considered haram’.
“But if you already have tattoos and you want to cover them up or add more, that’s okay, because your skin is already ‘dirty’ so to speak. There’s no other choice at that point.
“But if you’re ‘clean’ right now, please don’t. Because this will stay with you for your entire life.”
It’s a surprisingly thoughtful framework, one that separates first-timers from those already navigating an irreversible reality.
Netizens are loving her for it
Many netizens praised her for her transparency and moral consideration. Some even offered to treat her to a meal, since patronising her business wasn’t an option for them.
[EXCLUSIVE] We spoke to her & what she said will make you respect her even more
Turns out this wasn’t a one-off moment.
While it doesn’t happen all the time, Adelaide says Muslim clients asking for tattoos do come through her door every now and then and her answer is always the same.
What’s refreshing is that nobody has ever left upset.
They are okay with it. They will still leave in a mannerly way with ‘thanks’.”
As for where her conviction comes from, it’s not just personal, it was instilled in her.
“My boss and mum always taught me that not every ringgit is meant for you. Give and take. And living in Malaysia, where Islam is the official religion, my boss always reminded us to be sensitive and aware. At the end of the day, we can’t decide for others but we can choose to do right by ourselves.”
And for those who felt her original video was passing judgement? She wants you to know it was never about that.
No matter how, and no matter what religion our customer is, we will still remind them to think carefully before getting a tattoo. Even if laser technology is powerful, there’s still no guarantee of 100% removing it. Tattoos can last forever. But our mind, our decisions, they will change from stage to stage.”
Watch the clip here:
