Halloween is a holiday celebrated each year on October 31, a tradition that originates from the ancient Celtic Festival of Samhain. The festival is represented by people lighting bonfires and warding off ghosts, but has now evolved into a day of trick-or-treating, donning costumes and eating treats.
Living in Malaysia, Halloween was never a big thing until recently when institutions began adopting as part of their monthly gathering in schools or offices in the big city.
Throwing caution to the wind, Mufti Wilayah Persekutuan published a circular preventing Muslims to celebrate this ‘Christian’ holiday.
“Celebrating Halloween is haram. Based on historic information, Halloween is closely associated to Christianity and Christians celebrate Halloween to remember those who have passed away.”
Commenting on the poster, one netizen corrected the misconception that Halloween is closely related to the Christian faith.
In his tweet, he writes, “Since when is Halloween a Christian holiday? We celebrate All Souls Day to remind us of those who have passed away.”
“Halloween is an American holiday and it is a part of their culture there.”
Further commenting on the post, one netizen insists that, as Christians they “Do not celebrate Halloween, have never celebrated Halloween and do not believe in Halloween.”
Let’s hope that people will get their facts right after this. We do not want another round of religious debates to take place, putting our unity at risk.
Also read: “Ada Hantu?!” Here Are 7 Malaysian Supernatural Characters You Can Dress Up As This Halloween!
