Malaysia’s National Fatwa Council has come to a decision on whether or not to ban yoga in the country, but they’re not telling! Not today as was expected anyway. Why? Because the council chairman went on a trip! An official trip to Jordan that they were probably aware of last week when they warned of a decision being handed down next Friday, (today). Ah well, no worries, Islamic Development dept (Jakim) director-general said the announcement will have to be made “another time.” That’s fine, take all the time you need! We’re sure the Malaysian yogis won’t mind.
In what seems like a glimmer of hope, Harussani Zakari, the prof who initially ignited the whole yoga fatwa business has backpedaled a bit. “If it involves any faith or religious elements it is definitely not permissible but if it is just a form of exercise that is all right,” he said.
Too early to say, but we’re feeling optimistic that it won’t be an absolute ban.
