PUTRAJAYA: The Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim) called on Muslims in the country to refrain from playing Pokemon Go.
Jakim Director -General Tan Sri Othman Mustapha said the department supports the decision by the Federal Territories' Islamic Legal Consultative Committee held on Aug 1.
The decision, announced by Federal Territory Mufti Datuk Dr Zulkifli Mohamad al-Bakri, said it does not allow Muslims to engage with the game based on a variety of factors including its harmful effects.
"This decision is in line with the view of law in other Islamic countries proving Pokemon Go game causing harm leading to incidents that claimed lives.
“The game also has significant negative impact on children and teenagers,” he said in a statement on its Facebook page today.
Othman added the recommendations to avoid the game is consistent with the Islamic rule of Saddu Al-Zara'i, which required prevention on things leading to damage or harm on oneself.