A set of suggested guidelines intended at detailing Muslims' involvement in non-Muslim activities has caused a heated controversy in Malaysia, with critics denouncing the in initiative while a minister urged against politicizing the matter.In a parliamentary reply, Religious Affairs Minister Mohd Na'im Mokhtar stated that Malaysia's Islamic Development Department (JAKIM) is drafting particular criteria for Muslims attending non-Muslim gatherings or celebrations, among other things.JAKIM is the federal government body in charge of Islamic issues in Malaysia. The proposed restrictions prohibit the use of religious "propaganda" in songs or speeches, as well as performances that may offend Muslims. When inviting Muslims to activities at a non-Muslim site of worship, organizers must additionally obtain authorization from relevant authorities and consult with Islamic agencies. Ceremonies involving Muslims must not take place during daily Muslim prayer times, including Friday prayers.The guidelines also specified that event location must not be close to a surau (prayer hall), mosque, Muslim cemetery or wakaf (endowment) land, and that the premises should not contain non-Islamic religious symbols.