Fatwa should be made after in-depth studies, says Abdul Kadir
Source: Utusan Online - August, 1, 2004
KUALA LUMPUR Aug 1 - Information Minister Datuk Paduka Abdul Kadir Sheikh Fadzir said Sunday only the National Fatwa Council has the authority to rule whether concerts, including those held in conjunction with TV3's Sure Heboh carnival, are "haram" or prohibited by Islam.
"Statements saying that doing this haram, that haram should be made after in depth studies as they are confusing the public," he said when met by reporters at the Sure Heboh carnival at the Bukit Jalil Stadium, here.
He was asked to comment on the decision of Council of Muftis Malaysia that the Sure Heboh concert was haram as it could lead to one neglecting his responsibility to God and also encourage immoralities.
Perak Mufti Datuk Harussani Zakaria was reported to have said the decision would be brought to the National Fatwa Council for ruling.
"But if a decision is to made, let the National Fatwa Council makes it. We do not want to confuse people," said Abdul Kadir.
He said that in Sure Heboh concerts held before this, the ministry was always monitoring what the artistes were wearing in their performances.
"I don't see anything wrong with the concert. There is a concert tonight, I have seen and know that they are properly dressed," he said.
Abdul Kadir said these programmes should be encouraged as it would attract visitors, bring people together and help foster closer relationship between the races.
Meanwhile, TV3 Chief Executive Officer Datuk Farid Ridzuan said the Sure Heboh carnival and concert were family-based programmes held with the intention of thanking its loyal viewers.
"The carnival is for the family. Those coming to the concert are bringing along their families and not limited for the youth. It's just a family entertainment, I think that is not wrong," he told reporters.
-- Utusan Online
