[Straits Times] A TOP Islamic official in a Malaysian state has outlawed a popular line dance, claiming on Friday that it contained cult practices and elements of 'Christian rituals' unacceptable to Mohammedans.
Harussani Zakaria, mufti of the northern state of Perak, told AFP the 'poco-poco' dance violated Islamic law.
'The poco-poco dance is actually a cult dance,' he said. 'Our research indicates that the dance really originates from Jamaica and there are many Christian rituals to it as the moves reflect the making of a cross and so is unacceptable in Islam,' he added.
Good Gawd! What must they think of the Chicken Dance?
| How else is one to time a three-minute egg? The Chicken Dance comes before the egg, everyone knows that. |
'The dance is also practised in the Philippines and parts of Indonesia which have a Christian majority and so the dances have many Christian influences, which clash with Islam,' Mr Harussani said.
In Malaysia, many adults practise the dance, which is considered a recreational activity to keep fit. |