Saturday February 2, 2013

All the hoo-ha over Valentine’s Day

PETALING JAYA: While PAS is up in arms against the celebration of Valentine’s Day by Muslims, many youths are wondering what the fuss is about.

They have hit out at the Islamist party, describing its moves to forbid any form of celebration as “silly”.

Architecture student Zaki Maghfur, 24, said there was just as much likelihood of something “illicit” happening on other days besides Valentine’s Day.

“Personally, I don’t need nor want someone telling me what’s right and wrong like I’m incapable of making my own decisions,” he said.

At the end of the day, youths, said Zaki, should not be looked down upon for showing their love for someone, adding that the only thing “hurting during Valentine’s Day is the wallet”.

Deputy PAS youth chief Nik Abduh Nik Abdul Aziz had reportedly warned that Muslims were forbidden from celebrating the occasion, saying it was not suitable as it was closely linked to Christianity.

Terengganu PAS deputy publicity chief Azman Shapawi Abd Rani had also said that any celebration must be completely stopped as this could lead to immoral activities “between men and women without any legal ties”.

Although the party had said that the restriction would not include non-Muslims, it was not explained how they could celebrate Valentine’s Day when it had called for all functions relating to it to be banned.

Telemarketer Nur Arina Hafizah, 23, said people should be free to make up their own minds on whether they wanted to celebrate Valentine’s Day, adding that one should not be seen as a “bad Muslim” just for commemorating it.

“We are always told that we shouldn’t celebrate because it’s a day that can lead to immoral activities.

“Personally, I think it’s fine if people know their boundaries.

“Besides, regardless if it is Valentine’s Day or not, we should be showing our appreciation for our loved ones every day,” she said.

Student Nazreen Norzali, 22, said the occasion was not just about lovers as it could also be a day spent with loved ones like family and even pets.

“It’s really up to the intention of those celebrating it. I think that they should trust the Muslims who want to celebrate it as being able to celebrate it decently,” said Nazreen.

Accounts executive Noralyn Owen, 22, who celebrates Valentine’s Day, said she could not see what the whole fuss was about.

“Unless you are doing something wrong, it’s really just a regular day. Usually, people would go out and have fun. It’s not something bad. I think they (PAS) are just trying to make it look bad,” she said.

News

Saturday February 2, 2013

All the hoo-ha over Valentine’s Day