Malaysian Buddhists call for Korean DJ to be banned for dressing like a monk

Major Buddhist organizations in Malaysia, with the support of Chinese Association of Malaysia president Datuk Seri Wee Ka Siong, have called for Korean DJ NewJeansNim to be banned from performing in the country. The outcry came after DJ NewJeansNim performed at a dance club in Kuala Lumpur on May 3, dressed as a Buddhist monk.

The Young Buddhist Association of Malaysia (YBAM) told reporters it had received complaints from Buddhists, saying the DJ's clothing had "harmed and disrespected" the Buddhist way of life. “(The) YBAM believes that the impersonation of members of the sangha, one of the components of the Triple Jewel, during performances in entertainment venues such as dance halls is inappropriate,” the secretary said General of YBAM, Eow Shiang Yen, in a statement. (Malaysia Free Today)

“Such an arrangement will not only affect the solemnity of Buddhism, but may also confuse the public about the true meaning of Buddhist rituals, such as chanting sutras and holding palms together,” Eow added. (New Strait Times)

The Triple Gem refers to the three refuges to which Buddhists go as part of their practice and devotion: the Buddha, the Dharma and the Sangha. The Sangha is revered as the living embodiment of the Buddha's teachings and a source of guidance for lay practitioners.

Eow also pointed out that the dance club was a problematic setting for Buddhists due to the presence of alcohol and rowdy behavior. “Such an arrangement will not only affect the solemnity of Buddhism, but may also confuse the public about the true meaning of Buddhist rituals, such as chanting sutras and holding palms together,” he said. he declares. “Modern society certainly has its needs for creativity, entertainment and humor, but their presentation must take into account moderation, respect for religious sensitivities and avoid causing misunderstandings about religion in order to build social morality healthy. » (Malaysia Free Today)

Responding to concerns raised by the DJ, Eow urged everyone to remember to be sensitive to issues of race, religion and royalty, known as the "3Rs" in Malaysia, considered essential to maintaining peace. social harmony in the country, which has seen ethnic changes taking place. , religious and political since its independence in 1957.

Referring to the DJ, Wee Ka Siong, who is also an MP, said: “His controversial actions have hurt the sentiments of the Buddhist community, which will celebrate Wesak Day in two weeks. » He added that the DJ was scheduled to perform again in Malaysia on May 21, the day before Wesak. (The star)

Wee went on to say, "I call on the Minister of Home Affairs to direct the Department of Immigration, the police and the Puspal Secretariat to prevent the DJ's entry into Malaysia in order to respect the sanctity of the Buddhism and preserve religious harmony in Malaysia. If the DJ did not dress up as a Buddhist monk during his performance, did not arouse religious sensitivity, and did not cause unnecessary controversy, the Buddhist community will have no intention of blocking the performance of a any artist. (The star)

Last month, DJ NewJeansNim performed in Seoul for the International Buddhism Expo.* There, he was also dressed in monk-like clothing and received a positive reaction.

* Buddhists turn to youth at Seoul International Buddhism Exhibition (BDG)

See more

Buddhist group criticizes Korean DJ's monk attire at KL club (Free Malaysia Today)
Wee supports Buddhist bodies' call to ban Korean DJs over their nightclub appearance (New Strait Times)
Korean DJ disrespected for dressing up as a monk, says Dr Wee (The star)
South Korean DJ NewJeansNim faces calls for ban in Malaysia after performing in monk's robes at dance club (South China Morning Post)

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