Showing the way: Sultan Ibrahim (centre, in red) arriving at the state-level Thaipusam celebration at a temple in Skudai on Feb 5, along with other Johor state officials. — THOMAS YONG/The Star
IT makes perfect religious sense. There’s absolutely nothing contentious about the Johor religious affairs committee announcing a fatwa (religious decree) advising Muslims against participating in rituals of other faiths.
Other beliefs would echo that sentiment too. As a Christian, I certainly wouldn’t take part in a Thaipusam ritual or hold joss sticks when I attend a Taoist funeral.
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Wong Chun Wai
Wong Chun Wai began his career as a journalist in Penang, and has served The Star for over 35 years in various capacities and roles. He is now group editorial and corporate affairs adviser to the group, after having served as group managing director/chief executive officer. On The Beat made its debut on Feb 23 1997 and Chun Wai has penned the column weekly without a break, except for the occasional press holiday when the paper was not published. In May 2011, a compilation of selected articles of On The Beat was published as a book and launched in conjunction with his 50th birthday. Chun Wai also comments on current issues in The Star.
