In a recent statement, Mufti Pulau Pinang Datuk Seri Dr Wan Salim Wan Mohd Noor has called on the Malaysian government to respect the Islamic views on Sharia law before endorsing entertainment events.
Focus on prohibition of LGBT activities
The prominent figure has particularly emphasised the prohibition of activities related to the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community, citing clear Sharia texts from the Quran and Hadith.
The mufti’s comments came in response to the upcoming concert by international artist Ed Sheeran, scheduled to take place at the National Stadium Bukit Jalil on February 24.
Sheeran has faced allegations of supporting LGBT activities and previously organised a concert in Malaysia in April 2019 at the same venue, reported Harian Metro.
Concerns over foreign artists supporting LGBT
Wan Salim expressed his concerns over allowing concerts featuring foreign artists who are purported supporters of the LGBT community, urging the government to reconsider its position.
As a predominantly Islamic country, he argued, Malaysia should refrain from endorsing events that promote practices deemed sinful by Islamic teachings and other religions.
“It is the government’s responsibility to prevent wrongdoing, as clearly stated in the Quran, Surah Al-Haj verse 41. As a mufti, I feel responsible to urge the Malaysian government through the Ministry of Communication to immediately revoke permission for the organisation of the concert,” Wan Salim emphasised.
The mufti also called on all Muslims in the country to boycott the proposed concert, reminding them of the religious prohibition against cooperating in matters that lead to sin or transgression, as outlined in the Quran.
