The Muslim community has been prohibited from participating in the Sonic Splash Songkran Music Beach Party hosted by the Feringghi Heart Beach Club Malaysia happening this weekend (April 12 and 13).
According to a report by Sinar Harian, Penang Mufti, Datuk Dr Mohd Sukki Othman, shared that the Songkran festival celebrated by the Thai community is a new year celebration rich in Buddhist elements and rituals.
He further explained that the common practices included bathing Buddha statues, sprinkling water as a symbol of self-purification and paying respect to monks.
“Based on research into the content and background of this festival, Muslims are prohibited from participating in the Songkran festival, either directly or indirectly,” he said, adding that the prohibition is based on the method and hadith of the Prophet.
The Muslim community cannot create their own Songkran either
He also said that any form of imitation of other religious festivals, including for cultural or entertainment reasons, is not allowed because it can lead to confusion in faith and tarnish the identity of Islam.
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“This festival is also often accompanied by elements of extreme entertainment, the free mixing of men and women, and clothing that does not cover the aurat, and all of this is clearly against Islamic law,”
“Therefore, Muslims are reminded not to be involved or participate in any form of organising, promoting or attending Songkran events, and instead, fill their time with beneficial activities that are in line with Islamic values,” he added.
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