Muslims permitted to photograph festive decorations with conditions

GEORGE TOWN: Muslims are allowed to take photos of non-Muslim festive decorations, provided the intention is not to worship or promote another religion, says Penang Mufti Professor Datuk Dr Mohd Sukki Othman (pic).

This includes greeting non-Muslims during their festive celebrations, as long as it aligns with Islamic principles.

Mohd Sukki noted that while most ulamas advise against actions that endorse other religions or involve doubtful practices (syubhah), some allow it if there is no intention to celebrate the festival, particularly within a multicultural society.

“Regarding Muslims conveying greetings and participating in non-Muslim celebrations such as Christmas, Deepavali, Chinese New Year, Ponggal, Wesak, and others, the Penang Fatwa committee has decided that conveying greetings for non-Muslim celebrations are permissible.

“This ruling is considered more suitable in the context of Malaysia’s multicultural society, particularly in Penang.

“Muslims are encouraged to portray Islam as a friendly religion to attract the hearts of non-Muslims to Islam. However, this permissibility is subject to the condition that the greetings do not contain religious elements or expressions that contradict Islamic principles,” he said.

For attending non-Muslim open houses during religious celebrations, Mohd Sukki outlined specific criteria.

“It is permissible if the event does not involve activities contrary to Islamic faith, such as including or involving religious symbols or idols.

“The event should not involve acts or behaviours contrary to Islamic law and values, such as wearing specific colours or outfits symbolising beliefs associated with religions other than Islam or unrestricted free mixing and lack of proper decorum.

“The event must not include acts that may offend Islamic sensitivities and must not serve forbidden foods such as alcohol or pork,” he said.

While assisting in preparations for non-Muslim religious celebrations is prohibited under Islamic law, assisting in cultural celebrations requires further scrutiny to ensure they do not contain elements contrary to Islamic teachings.

“If religious elements dominate, Muslims should avoid assisting in these preparations. However, if the celebrations are purely cultural, participation by Muslims is permissible,” he said.

Mohd Sukki reminded Muslims that wearing clothing specific to certain non-Muslim communities and closely linked to their religious beliefs, such as Santa Claus costumes, priest attire, monk robes, or cross symbols, is prohibited.

However, wearing cultural attire with no specific religious connection, such as saris, kurtas, samfoos, and cheongsams, is permissible in principle, provided there are no elements of glorifying non-Muslim religions and proper modesty is observed.

Mohd Sukki had previously reminded Muslims that the ruling for taking photos or selfies with Christmas trees or decorations depends on their intention and context.

He said Muslims must safeguard their faith and avoid anything considered a celebration of a non-Islamic religion, as items such as Christmas trees are generally associated with Christian celebrations.

“If taking pictures with these decorations is perceived as supporting or celebrating another religion, it can become prohibited as it resembles or endorses practices contrary to Islamic beliefs.

“However, if the intention behind taking the photo is neutral—such as for aesthetics, memories, or cultural purposes—without supporting the religious celebration, it may be permissible, provided it does not lead to misunderstandings about the individual’s Muslim identity,” he told Kosmo on Thursday (Dec 26).

He also advised Muslims to maintain their image and avoid actions that may lead to slander or misconceptions.

“Taking pictures with Christmas decorations can be misinterpreted as support for the celebration, especially if such photos are shared on social media.

“The majority of Islamic ulama emphasise that Muslims should avoid actions resembling or endorsing practices of other religions.

“In this context, taking photos with religious festive decorations can be considered doubtful (syubhah), which is better avoided.

“However, some ulama allow this if there is no intention to celebrate or promote the event, and if it is understood as part of neutral cultural interaction,” he explained.

Earlier, photos of Muslims taking selfies and recording videos with Christmas trees and festive decorations sparked debates after going viral on social media.