(Kuala Lumpur, 21st) The topic of halal-certified restaurants in Melaka being prohibited from putting up Christmas decorations has stirred much controversy recently. Tourism, Arts, and Culture Minister Dato' Sri Zhang Qingxin expressed his regret regarding this and believes it will harm the international image of both Melaka and Malaysia.
Zhang Qingxin stated in a Facebook post that he opposes the boundless expansion of halal regulatory issues to the extent of denying festive decorations.
He said that according to explanations from the Melaka Religious Department, the decoration ban applies only to kitchens and dining areas holding halal certification and does not cover all areas of hotels.
He emphasized that Christmas is more about festive decoration and cultural expression, and that any hotel should be free to decorate within reasonable bounds, including inside their restaurants.
"If even the most basic right to decorate is being questioned, how will outsiders view our country? What kind of image do we wish to convey to the international community?"
He said that Melaka is an international tourist city that has long attracted visitors from all over the world, and Melaka not only possesses a deep historical heritage but also brings together diverse cultures, religions, philosophies, and arts. This is precisely Melaka's most precious and attractive core value.
Zhang Qingxin believes that an issue that did not originally exist and ought not to be sensationalized should not be escalated into a political, religious, or even racial controversy.
He said that such discussions not only do not help tourists understand the regulations but instead easily lead to misunderstandings.
Zhang Qingxin pointed out that Visit Malaysia Year 2026 is of great significance to the country, and each state bears a shared responsibility. If communication is lacking or things are mishandled, previous efforts could be wasted.
Therefore, he urges leaders of various religions to return to the roundtable of dialogue and communication, to resolve differences through discussion and mutual understanding.
He hopes the Melaka state government, especially the agencies related to religious and tourism matters, can enhance coordination and proactively provide clear explanations to society and international tourists.
"Much effort has been put into promoting Melaka by all parties. I do not wish for this issue to leave a 'scar' on Melaka at this crucial moment of Visit Malaysia Year 2026."
He pointed out that the role of the state government should be to maintain harmony among different religions and ethnic groups, not to infinitely escalate minor issues and create unnecessary confrontation and confusion.
"Only by building on the foundation of mutual respect and tolerance can Melaka continue to serve as a model of multiculturalism, and let the world truly see the humanity, harmony, and unity that Malaysia upholds."