The Perak State Mufti Department (JMNPk) has issued a formal reminder regarding the organisation of ‘Tidur Lambak’, a communal sleeping event scheduled to take place in Ipoh. While the department does not fundamentally oppose the leisure activity coordinated by Tapir Studio, it stressed that such programmes must remain aligned with Islamic principles and traditional Malay customs. The advisory aims to ensure that the event’s execution does not lead to public misconceptions about Islam or neglect the refined moral values and cultural heritage of the Malay community.
A primary concern highlighted by the department involves the potential for ‘ikhtilat’, or the unrestricted mixing of unrelated men and women. JMNPk noted that while the two-night event appears harmless in its basic concept, the voluntary nature of such communal gatherings could inadvertently lead to situations that contradict Sharia law. Concerns include the difficulty of maintaining modest gazes, the accidental exposure of ‘aurat’, and physical contact between non-mahram individuals, all of which are elements that must be strictly avoided during the session.
In a statement released last night, JMNPk advised the organisers to refine their implementation strategies and recommended seeking guidance from relevant authorities prior to holding such events. The department suggested that consulting with state religious bodies is essential to ensure that the objectives of any programme are successfully met through Sharia-compliant activities. By doing so, organisers can uphold the dignity of human values while providing a space for recreation and social interaction.
The ‘Tidur Lambak’ concept is inspired by the unique Malaysian tradition of large families sleeping together in a shared space, typically experienced during the ‘balik kampung’ season. Tapir Studio aimed to revitalise this nostalgic cultural practice using a modern approach, encouraging social bonding for those who may have never experienced such an atmosphere. The event was designed to offer a blend of artistic sounds and a peaceful environment to provide participants with a sense of calm and restfulness.
JMNPk reiterated that the implementation of Sharia in all dimensions of life is intended for the well-being of the public, including events involving Muslim families and the general community. The department clarified that religious guidelines are not meant to restrict social connections or life’s enjoyments, but rather to protect individuals from the erosion of human dignity. This immersive experience, which has previously been held in Kuala Lumpur and Jakarta, was scheduled to take place at a former timber factory in Bukit Merah in conjunction with the Syawal celebrations.
