Malaysian Water Festival Causes Public Outrage.

KUALA LUMPUR, April 30, 2026 – The Federal Territories Islamic Religious Department (JAWI) has voiced its objection to the Rain Rave Water Music Festival 2026 in Bukit Bintang, warning that such events could lead to moral harm.

JAWI Director Hanifuddin Roslan expressed disappointment over the festival’s concept and urged organizers to reconsider, stressing the importance of respecting Malaysia’s cultural and religious sensitivities. He referred to guidance from the Federal Territories Mufti Department (Bayan Linnas Series 351), which stated that while Islam does not reject entertainment, it must comply with religious principles.

Hanifuddin added that JAWI will continue to promote religious awareness through lectures, forums, campaigns, and Friday sermons, reminding Muslims to uphold God’s commands and avoid activities with immoral elements.

As part of its response, JAWI announced that Yasin recitations and special prayers (solat hajat) will be held simultaneously across Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, and Labuan after the evening (Maghrib) prayer today, seeking peace and harmony for the community.

The department also urged all parties to ensure that entertainment events do not contain elements that undermine religious values or public morality.

The Rain Rave Water Music Festival 2026, featuring local and international performers, is scheduled to run until May 2. It is promoted as one of the highlights of Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VM2026), combining music with water-themed activities and interactive visuals.