Social media influencers should positively influence others, says religious affairs minister

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Malaysia's minister of religious affairs Na'im Mokhtar has reportedly advised social media personalities to use their influence for good and to avoid actions that could fuel prejudice.

The minister reportedly made the call following a viral video depicting a social media influencer, Hafiz Mahamad, navigating crowds in an attempt to kiss the Hajar Aswad (black stone) during an Umrah trip.

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Kissing the Hajar Aswad is recommended practice, however, influencers should be mindful of certain restrictions, especially within the context of acts of worship, Na'im said according to Bernama.

This is especially if a situation poses safety risks or leads to issues such as the ihram cloth falling off and revealing one's body shape, Na'im reportedly added.

He also reportedly said that an influencer must strike a balance in their actions, leveraging their audience and influence to encourage the community to do good and spread truth without prejudicing themselves on social media platforms.

Influencers in Malaysia are facing increased scrutiny as of late. This is especially since government bodies are pressing in on the need for them to be mindful of what they say.

Most recently, Malaysia's communication minister Fahmi Fadzil reportedly reminded influencers to take extra care when they handle podcasts or upload content on social media to prevent negative effects on the community.

He also said that the government will carry out periodic monitoring and study actions that may be taken against influencers who upload non-constructive content, according to Bernama.

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