PUTRAJAYA: Muslims in Malaysia are called to uphold the concept of fiqh ta'ayush (togetherness) as the Chinese community is scheduled to celebrate Chinese New Year next week.
Islamic Development Department (Jakim) director-general Tan Sri Othman Mustapha made the call today based on the spirit of wasatiyyah (moderation) which had become part of the government's policy.
"Although the Chinese zodiac signs are represented by animals, it is required for all to respect and uphold the racial harmony based on the spirit of fiqh ta'ayush (togetherness) concept," he said in a statement today.
Othman added the spirit of togetherness in this matter should be wisely understood by all to maintain unity in Malaysia's multiracial society of various faiths.
Millions of Chinese will celebrate Chinese New Year on Feb 16 and 17 to usher in the Year of the Dog, which is the zodiac sign this year.
Chinese New Year is also called the Spring Festival and Lunar New year. It is celebrated for 15 days, but the first three days are deemed to be most important.