A video of a Chinese tourist showing disrespectful behavior at Putra Mosque in Putrajaya has recently gone viral, stirring public outrage and prompting the Malaysian Islamic Development Department (JAKIM) to step in. The incident, captured on video, shows the tourist dismissively tossing a robe handed to them by a security guard, a gesture that many viewers deemed disrespectful to the mosque's sanctity.
The video, which has spread widely across social media, depicts the tourist refusing the robe garment required to maintain modesty within the mosque premises by throwing it back at the security officer. This incident occurred as the group of tourists waited to receive robes, provided as part of the mosque's guidelines to ensure respectful attire in line with Islamic traditions. The disrespectful act was further aggravated by reports of the group kicking down several traffic cones within the mosque grounds, sparking a deeper investigation by the mosque management.
In response, JAKIM issued a statement addressing the incident and underscoring the importance of respecting the rules established for visitors to the mosque. Director General Dato Dr. Sirajuddin bin Suhaimee clarified that the Putra Mosque is committed to welcoming visitors from around the world to experience the beauty and tranquility of Islam. "The Putra Mosque welcomes visitors and tourists to the mosque, emphasizing the importance of following the Tourism and Visiting Guidelines for Putra Mosque in Putrajaya," he remarked, underscoring the importance of these guidelines in maintaining an atmosphere of peace and mutual respect.
He further stressed that while the mosque warmly invites people of all backgrounds to learn about Islam, any behavior that disregards the sanctity of the mosque will not be tolerated. The incident has raised questions on how best to ensure visitors understand and adhere to the cultural and religious expectations in sacred spaces.
As JAKIM and the Putra Mosque management continue to investigate, this incident serves as a reminder for visitors to respect the customs of the places they visit, especially those with deep cultural and religious significance.