“Using Islamic phrases in conversation is allowed as long as it does not undermine the sanctity of Islam, and is applied appropriately.
PETALING JAYA: Non-Muslims uttering Islamic phrases such as “Alhamdulillah”, “InshaAllah”, and “MasyaAllah” in daily conversations is generally permissible, provided it is done respectfully and in the correct context, according to the Federal Territory Mufti Department.
In a statement on their website, it explained that while these expressions hold deep religious significance for Muslims, their use by non-Muslims in everyday interactions does not constitute a violation of Islamic teachings as long as the phrases are not used to demean or insult the faith.
“Using Islamic phrases in conversation is allowed as long as it does not undermine the sanctity of Islam, and is applied appropriately.
“In Malaysia’s multicultural society, it is common for people of different faiths to adopt expressions from one another, either consciously or unconsciously, reflecting cultural and social interaction across communities.”
On Wednesday, PAS MP Datuk Siti Zailah Mohd Yusoff (PN-Rantau Panjang) had questioned Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming during the Dewan Rakyat sitting for using phrases commonly associated with Muslims, such as “Alhamdulillah” (praise be to God), saying it could confuse non-Muslims and appeared to trivialise the sanctity of Islam.
“You repeatedly used Islamic phrases in your speech, expressions of gratitude, Alhamdulillah. Do you truly believe in Allah? We do not want these words to be misused,” she said, adding that such use could touch on sensitive issues relating to religion, royalty, and race.
In response, Nga defended his choice of words, saying: “Such accusations are unfair. As a person of faith, I believe we should respect one another.
“Phrases like Alhamdulillah are Arabic words, and InshaAllah means ‘if God wills’. I used them to express gratitude.”
Nga also emphasised that the matter should not be blown out of proportion, cautioning that it could strain racial and religious harmony in the country.
