PETALING JAYA: The Federal Territories mufti has urged organisers of the controversial Glamping with Pride event to cancel it, saying it promotes lifestyles and practices that contravene Islamic teachings.
In a statement, Ustaz Ahmad Fauwaz Fadzil said the event, which combines outdoor glamping activities with elements associated with the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBTQ+) community, risks normalising behaviour considered sinful in Islam.
“The event may appear as a recreational activity but it attempts to promote acts that are prohibited by Allah SWT,” he said.
The mufti highlighted Islamic teachings emphasising the preservation of morality, family structure and the natural order of male and female relationships.
He cited Quranic verses recounting the story of Prophet Lut, warning against immoral acts as well as a Hadith condemning the open practice of sin.
He stressed that in Malaysia, where Islam holds a special position under the Federal Constitution, public event must respect religious sensitivities, laws and local cultural norms.
“Authorities and recreational venue operators need to be more vigilant and strict in screening any activities that attempt to normalise practices contrary to existing syariah laws,” he said.
The public should refrain from supporting or participating in events that could harm faith and morals and actively oppose wrongdoing within their capacity, he added.
He said while those promoting such events should face strict legal action, the door to repentance remains open for anyone wishing to return to the right path.
He also recommended that recreational activities for Muslims focus on fostering spirituality, strengthening community ties and upholding moral values.
On Jan 10, the Selangor government called on authorities to investigate the upcoming Glamping with Pride event, scheduled for next week.
State Youth, Sports and Entrepreneurship Committee chairman Mohd Najwan Halimi said the government would not tolerate efforts to spread or promote LGBTQ+ culture.
“The state government will not compromise on any attempts to promote deviant values that go against societal norms,” he said, adding that he had contacted police to request an investigation and appropriate action.
Despite objections from Selangor PAS, the pro-LGBTQ+ group organising the event confirmed it would proceed on Jan 17 and 18 in Hulu Langat.
The NGO behind the event, Jejaka, described it as a private, community-based retreat focused on wellbeing, peer support and health awareness.
“It involves lawful camping activities at a registered venue and does not violate any Malaysian law. Camping, gatherings and community education are legal activities in the country,” the organisation said in a statement.
