Muslims should not celebrate Valentine's Day, says cleric

An Indonesian cleric has advised Muslims against participating in the celebration of Valentine’s Day, saying it glorifies promiscuity.

Anwar Abbas, head of education at the semi-official Indonesian Council of Muslim Scholars, said the council was concerned about reports that some shops had been selling chocolate packaged together with condoms ahead of Valentine’s Day.

“Valentine’s Day is not compatible with our nation’s culture and religious tenets,” he told AFP.

“The sale of condoms has led to prostitution and free sex. We have long rejected the condomisation of our society.

“It is very possible that we will issue a fatwa restricting the sale of condoms freely in this country.”

A fatwa is a legal opinion handed down by Islamic leaders.

According to the country’s local media, the reports sparked outrage among conservative Muslims and prompted local authorities in Central Java to raid stores and confiscate the items.

Around 90 percent of Indonesia’s 250 million people are Muslim, but the vast majority practise a moderate form of the religion.

Indonesia is the world’s most populous Muslim nation.