M'sia leaders seek clarity on reported Melaka move barring Christmas décor at halal-certified hotels, eateries
A purported Melaka Islamic Religious Department circular banning Christmas decorations at halal-certified premises sparked backlash from politicians across parties, who questioned its rationale, warned of confusion for businesses, and said festive décor does not affect halal status or religious faith.
- A circular purportedly issued by the Melaka Islamic Religious Department sparked controversy after reports claimed Christmas decorations were not allowed at halal-certified eateries and hotels, citing faith-related concerns.
- Politicians from Umno, DAP and Sarawak questioned the rationale of the reported directive, arguing that halal certification depends on food preparation and ingredients, not festive decorations.
- Critics warned the move could confuse businesses, harm Melaka’s tourism image and undermine Malaysia’s long-standing practice of celebrating cultural and religious diversity.
MALAYSIA: A circular purportedly issued by the Melaka Islamic Religious Department (Jaim) has sparked widespread debate, following reports that Christmas decorations are not permitted at halal-certified hotels and food outlets in the state.
According to media reports, the circular stated that Christmas decorations should not be displayed on the premises of halal-certified establishments, as Christmas is regarded as a religious celebration rather than a cultural one.
The directive reportedly cited concerns that such decorations could lead to faith-related issues.
The reports prompted responses from political figures across party lines, with several questioning both the rationale and implications of the alleged directive.
UMNO Youth chief: Festive décor does not affect halal standards
Umno Youth chief Datuk Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh called on Jaim to reconsider the reported directive, particularly as it applies to kitchens and dining outlets that have already obtained halal certification.
In a video posted on his official Facebook account, the Merlimau assemblyman stressed that halal status for food and beverages is determined entirely by the source of ingredients and the method of preparation.
He argued that decorations within kitchens or dining areas have no bearing on whether food is halal.
Ayer Keroh assemblyman Kerk Chee Yee also questioned whether the state government had indeed issued a directive banning Christmas decorations on the grounds that the celebration is religious in nature.
Describing the move as a backward step, Kerk urged the Melaka government to retract the directive.
He pointed out that hotels and restaurants routinely decorate their premises during various festive seasons to welcome guests of all backgrounds.
Kerk warned that such a ban could create confusion for businesses and potentially harm Melaka’s tourism-driven economy and its reputation as an inclusive destination.
DAP Melaka similarly expressed concern over the reported directive, saying it could negatively affect entrepreneurs and damage the image of Melaka as a tourist state.
The party noted that Melaka receives visitors from within Malaysia and abroad, and that it is common practice for hotels and food establishments nationwide to display festive greetings and decorations during celebrations such as Hari Raya, Deepavali, Chinese New Year and Christmas.
DAP Melaka added that festive decorations should not be an issue in a plural society, stressing that respect for cultural diversity and the celebration of different festivals have long formed the foundation of national harmony and unity.
Sarawak Minister Questions Rationale
The purported ban also drew criticism from Sarawak tourism, creative industry and performing arts minister Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, who said he was bewildered by the policy and described those behind it as shallow.
Karim said those advocating such a ban should adopt a more open-minded approach, particularly in a multi-ethnic and multi-religious society.
He noted that halal-certified restaurants regularly welcome patrons of various faiths and have long displayed decorations during festive periods.
He added that decorations for Hari Raya, Deepavali and Chinese New Year have never triggered controversy in the past, questioning why Christmas decorations should be treated differently.
“So why the ban on Christmas decorations? How paranoid are these people?,” he said, adding that Christmas decorations would not affect the faith of Muslims.
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