“It Was Just a Birthday Party” – Pekin Ibrahim Responds to Secret Santa Accusations
Viral Video Sparks Religious Debate Online
Malaysian actor Pekin Ibrahim recently found himself at the centre of online debate after a video showing him wearing a Christmas-themed outfit went viral on social media.
The clip led to speculation and accusations that Pekin had participated in a Secret Santa event, a practice previously stated as forbidden for Muslims by religious authorities.
Religious Clarification on Secret Santa Practices
Former Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs), Zulkifli Mohamad Al-Bakri, had previously clarified that Muslims are prohibited from participating in Secret Santa celebrations, citing concerns that it could be seen as normalising religious practices of other faiths.
This religious clarification was quickly linked by netizens to the viral video involving Pekin and his wife, actress Mona Allen.
Pekin Ibrahim Explains What Really Happened
Responding to the controversy, Pekin denied claims that he and his wife were involved in any Secret Santa activity. Speaking to Harian Metro, the actor explained that the gathering was simply a birthday party for a friend’s child.
According to Pekin, the Christmas-themed outfit was worn casually as it resembled sleepwear and the event was limited to close friends and family. He stressed that there were no gift exchanges or religious elements involved, adding that the only activity played during the party was musical chairs.
Private Moment Shared Without Consent
Pekin also revealed that he never intended for the event to be recorded or shared publicly. He said the video was livestreamed by the household’s maid without his knowledge.
More concerning to him was the circulation of images showing his wife without her hijab, which he said should not have happened and could be considered defamatory.
“Those who spread the video could be defaming us,” Pekin said, expressing his disappointment over how the situation escalated online.
A Reminder About Context in Viral Content
The incident has reignited discussions about context, privacy, and how quickly assumptions can spread online without full understanding of a situation.
While religious guidelines remain clear on certain practices, Pekin’s clarification highlights the importance of distinguishing between cultural aesthetics, private gatherings, and actual religious participation.
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