The Tapah Islamic Religious Administrative Office has barred Malays from attending joget lambak (traditional dance performances) events organised by the Orang Asli villages of Batang Padang, Perak.

According to a letter dated Oct 5, the agency raised several concerns about the event, ranging from idolatry to the consumption of alcohol and fornication.

The office said that idol and deity worship at such events is punishable as an act of apostasy.

“Before the dance begins, the Orang Asli engage in idol worship...