Malaysia‘s halal-certified bakeries are breaking free from a three-year ban on Christmas greetings.
The Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim) declared yesterday, December 18, that businesses can now sprinkle some Yuletide joy on their cakes.
The change came after a viral uproar over a leaked internal memo from Berry’s, a popular bakery chain, instructing staff to steer clear of Merry Christmas messages. The memo cited Jakim’s halal regulations, prompting a debate on social media.
The memo urged staff to opt for a Season’s greetings topper.
“To be informed for this coming Christmas Festival Celebration we are strictly not allowed to write the words of Merry Christmas or X’Mas on any cakes even [if] requested by the customer.”
Outraged Facebook users questioned the logic behind the ban.
“Will having the word Merry…
