FatwaJohorSocial & Contemporary Issues
PERSEMBAHAN BARONGAN
What is the ruling on barongan performances according to the Johor State Fatwa?
Short answer
The Johor State Fatwa Committee decided that barongan performances and any culture with similar characteristics are prohibited because they conflict with Islamic teachings.
A reference, not a fatwa. First sentence of the summary below — read the original fatwa and consult your state authority before acting.
- Authority
- Johor State Mufti Department
- Date
- Status
- Fatwa committee decision
- Series
- Fatwa Negeri Johor
- Topic
- Social & Contemporary Issues
No evidence of gazettement in the source — this is not a gazetted fatwa.
Summary
The Johor State Fatwa Committee decided that barongan performances and any culture with similar characteristics are prohibited because they conflict with Islamic teachings. The reasons include the high likelihood of possession, mixing of men and women, superstitious elements that harm faith, resemblance to Hindu culture, and its distracting nature. The prohibition applies to any form, time and place, and covers owning, selling or distributing barongan-related materials. Muslims who take part may face action under the laws in force in Johor.
Written in our own words from the original fatwa — check the source before acting on it.
Bahawa persembahan barongan dan mana-mana budaya yang mempunyai ciri-ciri tersebut adalah dilarang dan bercanggah dengan ajaran Islam.
Read the full fatwa on the Johor website (new tab)
How to cite
Cite the original fatwa and its authority. Rujuk Fatwa is only where you found it.
Johor State Mufti Department. “PERSEMBAHAN BARONGAN”, 26 November 2025. https://said.johor.gov.my/perkhidmatan/paparan_detail_fatwa.php?id=2001. Found via Rujuk Fatwa: https://rujukfatwa.com/en/fatwa/ruling-on-barongan-performances-johor/