Muslims, tossing Yee Sang this CNY? Go for it!
It is permissible for Muslims to participate in Yee Sang ceremonies as long as the food served is halal, and there is no connection to creedal issues, both in terms of speech and belief in the ceremony.
SHAH ALAM: In a multicultural country like Malaysia, it is impossible for us not to have friends from other races and of course, embracing their culture as well.
This Chinese New Year, if you are joining your friends in tossing the prosperity dish – the Yee Sang while shouting 'Heng ah! Ong ah! Huat ah!'’ but wondering if it is permitted in Islam, go for it!
The Federal Territories Mufti Office in their Bayan Linnas Series 48: Islam and Chinese New Year has clarified that is it permissible for Muslims to participate in tossing Yee Sang.
“Malaysia's diversity in ethnicity, religion, and language makes it a truly unique country. Living in a multicultural and multireligious society, Malaysians always strive for understanding, compromise, and mutual respect.
“Islam has never denied the rights of other religions. Even during the time of the Prophet Muhammad SAW, he coexisted with the Jewish, Christian, and polytheist communities.
“Fundamentally, Islam calls on its followers to adhere to the principles of Islam, refrain from disbelief, take pride in their Islamic values, and exhibit a distinct Muslim identity, differentiating themselves from non-Muslims,” the statement read.
Among others, the guideline outlined that Muslims Were permitted to engage in the prosperity toss ceremony, known as ‘Yee Sang’ as the salad dish typically consists of vegetables and raw fish.
“In Malaysia and Singapore, Yee Sang is synonymous with Chinese New Year celebrations. It is a dish representing prosperity, featuring a mix of seven different ingredients such as papaya, white radish, red radish, raw salmon, nuts, various vegetables, and assorted sauces and seasonings.
“From an Islamic perspective, if the food is halal and good, there is no objection to consuming it. Yee Sang, being a cultural practice, is not related to creedal matters.
“It is permissible for Muslims to participate in Yee Sang ceremonies as long as the food served is halal, and there is no connection to creedal issues, both in terms of speech and belief in the ceremony. Furthermore, there should be no elements of sin involved.
“In a country with religious diversity, ethnic plurality, and distinct customs like Malaysia, the society's openness and tolerance, without compromising fundamental Islamic principles, become evident,” it stated.
The statement also guidelines for Muslims engaging in celebrations of other communities.
“The event should not include activities contrary to Islamic beliefs. The event should not involve actions contrary to Islamic law. The event should align with the moral and cultural values of the Islamic community in the country. The event should not touch on sensitive aspects of Islamic beliefs.”
Yee Sang, also known as the Prosperity Toss or Lo Hei, is a colourful salad comprising various ingredients, each symbolising different aspects of prosperity and luck.
The act of tossing the ingredients high into the air is believed to usher in good fortune and positive energy for the coming year.
Traditionally a Chinese custom, this festive dish has found its way into the hearts and celebrations of Malaysians from various cultural backgrounds.
