‘I want to touch a dog’ event a big hit with Muslims in Malaysia

Hundreds of Malaysians from all walks of life have turned up for the first-ever “I Want To Touch A Dog” event near Kuala Lumpur, Sunday. Animal lovers walked around with their dogs of various breeds like husky, german shepherd, doberman, golden retriever and poodle. Chidren were elated touching the animals. There were also some Muslims yelping when the dogs sniffed them. The organiser of the event, Syed Azmi Alhabshi, said the event is aimed at helping the general public overcome the negative perception of dogs and foster respect between dog owners and members of the public. Attendees also learn the proper way to perform cleansing. Also present at the event was a Muslim scholar who was giving short talks on the touching of dogs in Islam.

It is also to show that touching a dog is not haram. Dogs are also creatures created by Allah that need love and care.

Siti Sakinah, a former religious teacher

Asia-Pacific