Famous Malaysian preacher, Ustazah Asma’ Harun, has clarified whether or not Muslims can participate in Chinese New Year (CNY) celebrations when invited by Chinese family members or friends.
Taking to her Facebook page, she explained that participation is permitted, provided the customary celebrations are not rooted in religious faith.
This image is for illustration purposes only.
Social bonds and intentions
Dubbing the CNY celebration a benchmark for the relationship between Muslims and non-Muslims, she explained:
“The condition is that we must never be swayed by their faith; the celebration serves only as a sign of friendship and exists on a purely social basis.”
However, Ustazah Asma’ noted that converts who celebrate CNY must only have the intention of visiting, respecting, and honouring family.
“They should not observe it as a religious festival, as it is not an Islamic celebration,” she clarified.
What aspect of CNY celebrations can Muslims participate in?
This image is for illustration purposes only.
The preacher elaborated on specific aspects of CNY festivities, such as wishing others “Gong Xi Fa Cai” and participating in the tossing of Yee Sang, clarifying that both are permitted.
“It is permissible for us to consume the food served as long as it is not prepared using haram ingredients, such as alcohol, pork, or other forms of impurity. It is also necessary to ensure that cooking equipment and utensils used for the meal have not been cross-contaminated with haram food.”
Regarding the traditional greeting, she noted:
“The phrase ‘Gong Xi Fa Cai’ translates to ‘congratulations and may you be blessed’. Therefore, it is permitted to say it, as it does not contradict the Islamic faith.”
Ustazah Asma’ concluded her post by wishing the Malaysian Chinese community a Happy Chinese New Year.
