Johor to Implement New Regulations for Kuda Kepang Cultural Performances, Ensuring Compliance with Islamic Principles
Johor Islamic Religious Department Introduces Guidelines for Kuda Kepang Performances
In an effort to maintain the cultural integrity of the Kuda Kepang dance while ensuring it adheres to Islamic principles, the Johor Islamic Religious Department (JAINJ) has announced new guidelines for cultural activities, including Kuda Kepang performances and sports.
The announcement was made by Johor Islamic Religious Affairs Committee chairman, Mohd Fared Mohd Khalid, to reporters. According to him, the guidelines were developed in collaboration with Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM) and aim to prevent cultural activities from containing elements of polytheism or superstition.
The Kuda Kepang dance, which is of Javanese origin, is often performed in its pure form. However, it can sometimes be infused with religious elements, which has led to concerns among religious authorities.
Recently, three men were sentenced to one month in prison and fined RM2,000 by the Batu Pahat Syariah Court for participating in a Kuda Kepang ritual that contained elements of polytheism, superstition, offerings, idol worship, or a lack of awareness. The offence took place in a public area in front of a house in Parit Raja, Batu Pahat, between 10pm and 1am on August 10 and 11.
The sentencing may serve as a deterrent for others participating in Kuda Kepang rituals that contravene Islamic principles. Mohd Fared stressed that the authorities must ensure there is evidence of worship or activities that deviate from the norm before making an arrest.
JAINJ has received 10 complaints about the use of shamans in the past two years, and the department is currently investigating shaman services allegedly deviating from Islamic practices as part of efforts to curb heretical beliefs.
Religious authorities have emphasised that Kuda Kepang is a cultural practice and not part of Islam. The Kuda Kepang dance remains popular in Batu Pahat and other areas with large Javanese communities.
The new guidelines will cover performances or activities that involve offerings to other beings, idol worship, or a lack of awareness, such as when participants enter a trance during Kuda Kepang. JAINJ encourages organisers of Kuda Kepang performances to familiarise themselves with these guidelines to ensure their events are in line with Islamic principles.
