Don't celebrate Valentine's Day, Jakim reminds Muslims

SHAH ALAM - The Islamic Development Department (Jakim) has reminded Muslims not celebrate Valentine's Day, stressing its not a part of Islamic culture.

In a Facebook post, Jakim said the celebration was not part of the religion.

"Valentine's Day which falls on February 14 every year has never been endorsed in Islam and it is not a part of Muslim culture," it said.

Jakim also quoted Prophet Muhammad who said 'who resembles a race, then he is part of them', stating that Muslims who follow the tradition of other communities eventually become a part of their culture.

The department also said that Islam does not prevent love as long as long as it does not conflict with 'laws of Shariah'.

Jakim has consistently opposed the celebration of Valentine’s Day among Muslims, claiming is base on elements of Christianity.