“There must be limits,” Umno President says

UMNO has called for a reassessment of public entertainment events, insisting that all programmes must be guided by clear principles that uphold religious sensitivities, cultural values and societal norms.

Its president, Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, said the party takes seriously the concerns raised by the Federal Territories Islamic Religious Department and the Federal Territories Mufti Department regarding a controversial upcoming event.

“These views must be respected as they reflect the concerns of a large segment of Malaysians.

“That is why we have called for programmes of this nature to be re-evaluated in terms of their concept, content and implementation,” he said in a Facebook post on Friday.

Zahid added that guidelines governing such events should be strengthened to ensure they align with the country’s cultural identity and religious framework.

“UMNO’s principle on entertainment is clear: there is nothing wrong with entertainment, but it must have limits.

“Progress can continue, but values must not be compromised. Organisers should engage with the authorities to ensure that social harmony is preserved,” he said.

He emphasised that this stance represents UMNO’s official position on the matter.

The remarks follow controversy surrounding the proposed Rain Rave Water Music Festival 2026 in Kuala Lumpur, which has drawn criticism for allegedly conflicting with local values and sensitivities.

The Federal Territories Islamic Religious Department (JAWI) had earlier objected to the event, warning that it could lead to moral harm and erosion of societal values.

In its statement, JAWI also expressed regret and urged organisers to review the concept of the programme, taking into account the sensitivities of Malaysia’s multi-ethnic and multi-religious society.

Meanwhile, the Federal Territories Mufti Department, in its Bayan Linnas Series 351, stated that while Islam does not reject entertainment outright, it must adhere to religious guidelines and avoid elements that contravene moral and ethical standards. - May 1, 2026