Ipoh (Malaysia), Apr 2(ANI): Muslim clerics in Malaysia have issued a fatwa banning the "poco-poco", a popular line dance, saying that it is 'haram for Muslims' because of its Christian roots.
In Malaysia, many adults practice the dance, which is considered a recreational activity to keep fit.
However, Perak mufti, Harussani Zakaria, said that it originates from a ritual dance often practiced in Jamaica and contains elements of Christianity as well as spirit worship.
Harussani said the word "poco" in some dictionaries also referred to a kind of wild dance performed while possessed by "ancestral spirits".
"I requested some cultural officers to do research and they came out with the findings. The cross-shaped movement, normally associated with Christianity, can be seen clearly in the dance, but this was not realized by most Muslims," the Star quoted Harussani, as saying.
"Therefore, it is unacceptable to say that the dance is just another form of exercise. That is why it is haram for Muslims," he added.
Harussani further said that he had also received a call from a Christian in France disputing the edict by the Perak Fatwa Committee.
"When I asked him if it was all right for him to perform a dance depicting the Muslims' prayer movements, he said No'," Harussani said, adding that Muslims could perform zapin or joget for exercise instead.
"They can dance and exercise as long as they want, provided that the men and women are separated," he added. (ANI)
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