FT Mufti: Nothing wrong in wishing Merry Christmas

‘Provided they don’t glorify the latter’s religion’

PETALING JAYA: There is nothing wrong in wishing Christians “Merry Christmas”, said Datuk

Seri Dr Zulkifli Mohamad Al-Bakri (pic).

The Federal Territories Mufti pointed out Muslims are permitted to do so when it is a congratulatory expression on the celebration of other faiths without glorifying their religion.

“It is no more than a mere greeting to express happiness and enjoyment upon seeing the happiness of those celebrating.

“Muslims can wish Christians ( Merry Christmas), provided they don’t glorify the latter’s religion,” he said when contacted.

He cited the Muzakarah National Fatwa Committee Council in Islamic Affairs’ 78th meeting in 2007 that had concluded that sending greetings through cards, emails or text messages to non-Muslims during their festive seasons was permissible, as long as such greetings did not glorify non-Muslim faiths or use religious symbols.

“It is important to create more awareness on this matter so that no confusion arises.

“Living in harmony with people of other religions is important,” Dr Zulkifli said.

Dr Zulkifli had already clarified the issue in 2016.

In 2014, certain conservative Muslim groups had said that Muslims should not greet Merry Christmas to Christians.

They had cited Islamic scholars who described the greeting as haram (forbidden).