The DAP man said if it is true, the directive would be a backward move for Melaka and must be corrected by the state government.

“Our hotels (and restaurants) welcome all kinds of guests, and what hotel in Malaysia would not put up decorations in line with such festivities? Even government departments do that for the various festivals we celebrate in our country.

“I urge the Melaka government to rectify the matter and order the Melaka Islamic religious affairs department (Jaim) to retract this directive,” he said in a Facebook post.

FMT has reached out to Melaka chief minister Ab Rauf Yusoh for comment.

A circular allegedly issued by Jaim states the department had received enquiries about Christmas decorations in halal-certified hotels and food premises in Melaka.

The purported document states Christmas decorations are not permitted on the premises of any halal-certified hotel or outlet in Melaka since Christmas is a religious celebration, not cultural, and may “cause faith-related issues”.

It said hotel managements may put up such decorations in “areas of the hotel that are not halal-certified”.

Meanwhile, Melaka DAP Youth said Kesidang assemblyman and state exco member Allex Seah has raised the issue with Rauf and will bring the matter to the state exco meeting for discussion.

In a statement, it said the directive exceeds Jaim’s authority by regulating cultural expressions of other communities, creating confusion for businesses and threatening Melaka’s tourism-driven economy and reputation as an inclusive destination.