The term 'haram', when used in reference to illegal temples (kuil haram), has often become a point of controversy, with some arguing that its use touches on racial and religious sensitivities.
Some have claimed that the term is only applicable to Muslims because the word originates from Arabic.
As a result, whenever the issue of illegal temple is openly discussed, particularly on social media, certain groups have called for the term 'haram' to be avoided.
For example, Dewan Himpunan Pendukung PAS (DHPP) central chairman Kumaresan Baby Kalidawson recently described the term 'kuil haram' as hurtful to the Indian community. (https://www.astroawani.com/video/henti-label-kuil-haram-masyarakat-india-tidak-selesa-dhpp)
However, the statement was criticised by various parties, including the Anti-Illegal Houses of Worship Movement (GARAH), which defended the use of the term, arguing that it is both consistent with and accurate in the context of the law.
Derived from Arabic word into the Malay language
A review of the use of the term 'haram' confirms that the word originates from Arabic, where it is primarily associated with religious rulings and Islamic law.
However, the term 'haram' has also been fully absorbed into the Malay language and is recognized as part of the official Malay vocabulary by Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP).
In the Malay language, the use of the term 'haram' can broadly be understood in different main contexts.
Firstly, from religious context, where 'haram' refers to something that is strictly prohibited under Islamic law.
This includes acts such as gambling, adultery and theft, as well as consuming prohibited substances such as pork and alcohol.
The term 'Haram' in the context of legal and civil matters
From another context, the term 'haram' can also be used referring to legal and civil matters.
In this context, 'haram' can be used as a synonym for something that is against the law, unlawful, unauthorized or carried out without the required permission or license.
Its use in this context does not necessarily involve religious concepts such as sin or reward.
Common examples include terms such as 'pendatang haram' (illegal immigrants), 'lumba haram' (illegal racing) and 'peneroka haram' (trespassers / illegal settlers).
These terms refer to conduct or circumstances that violate specific laws. For example, 'pendatang haram' refers to individuals who breach immigration laws, while 'lumba haram' refers to illegal racing activities conducted in violation of the traffic laws.
Based on this context, the use of the term 'haram' can therefore also apply to a house of worship or any other structure that has been built or operated without the required legal approval.
Using this argument, legal expert, Datuk Zainul Rijal Abu Bakar has stated that there is no issue with using the term 'kuil haram' (illegal temple).
According Zainul Rijal, the term 'haram' in this context refers to a building structure that has been constructed or is operating without the approval or permission required by law.
An attempt to divert public attention?
This explanation has led many to question the rationale behind attempts to discourage the use of the term 'haram' when discussing issues regarding illegal temples.
For many, the issue raises a broader question: is this simply an attempt to divert public attention away from the actual issue regarding illegal temple, or does it stem from a misunderstanding of how the Malay language uses the term 'haram'?
Ultimately, the debate should perhaps focus less on the word itself and more on the actual legal status of the structure in question.
If a building is constructed or operated without the approvals required by law, the discussion should be centred on whether the structure complies with the relevant laws and regulations, not merely on whether the term 'haram' makes certain parties uncomfortable.
Azzman Mantoya (azzman.tvpertiwi@gmail.com) is a content creator under the Newswav Creator programme, where you get to express yourself, be a citizen journalist, and at the same time monetize your content & reach millions of users on Newswav. Log in to creator.newswav.com and become a Newswav Creator now!
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