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MUAR – Muslims in Johor have been advised to check with the kadi’s office in their districts before organising any religious or cultural activities, especially traditional ones that contain elements of idol worship and hypnotism, such as the performance of “kuda kepang”.
State Islamic Religious Affairs Committee chairman Mohd Fared Mohd Khalid said a review needs to be done earlier in efforts to preserve the culture and prevent it from turning into activities that could affect religious beliefs.
“Referring to the district kadi’s office is not only encouraged for cultural activities, but any party or individual who needs further clarification on any matter can go to the kadi’s office to obtain a better understanding.
“This step is aimed at helping those involved to not engage in activities that may affect religious beliefs,” he told reporters after officiating the Johor-level 1444H Israk Mikraj celebration at Masjid Sultan Ibrahim here last night.
He said the state government is still in the process of reviewing and fine-tuning kuda kepang performances, with a final review being carried out at Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia before obtaining feedback from the Johor Mufti Department.
Earlier, a viral TikTok video showed a kuda kepang performance believed to have taken place in Johor, which involved elements of worship and possession.
The Johor Fatwa Committee had issued a fatwa on February 18, 2000, making it illegal for Muslims to participate in kuda kepang performances as they contain elements of worship and possession.
On another matter, Fared said as many as 160 mosques and 140 religious schools in the state would have free WiFi facilities by the end of this month. – Bernama, February 18, 2023
