Jakim probes claims of un-Islamic elements at The Weeknd concert

KUALA LUMPUR: The Islamic Development Department (Jakim) is investigating allegations that The Weeknd's concert at the TM Stadium Nasional in Bukit Jalil on November 4 and 5 featured elements that conflicted with Islamic teachings. Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) Minister Dr Zulkifli Hasan confirmed the Research Division of Jakim is working closely with the Central Agency Committee for Filming Applications and Foreign Artistes Performances' secretariat (Puspal) to determine if the event adhered to the required guidelines.

He reiterated that Islam strictly forbids any form of worship or veneration to anyone or anything other than Allah. Zulkifli emphasized that all parties must ensure artistic performances do not create confusion about religious, moral, and cultural issues in Malaysia. He stated that appropriate action would be taken under the law to ensure performances respect religious and cultural sensitivities, as well as public order.

The opposition party Pas had previously raised concerns about the use of a large golden statue and performance elements that seemed to mimic worship rituals during the concert. Pas Youth Dakwah and Islamic Advocacy Committee chairman Mohamed Sukri Omar expressed worry that such elements might be normalized under the guise of entertainment.

He noted that the concert's concept was reportedly inspired by a fictional work about a society that worshipped machines as gods, featuring themes of grandeur, destruction, and rebirth.