The Sabah Fatwa Council reaffirmed its 2007 prohibition on the mystical elements of the “Bubu Mengalai” ritual, a traditional practice of the Bisaya community, if it involves superstitions or polytheistic practices.

Such acts, the council noted, contradict Islamic teachings and risk undermining the faith of Muslims.

The ruling, made during the Muzakarah Fatwa Negeri Sabah meeting on May 28-29, 2007, specifically bans rituals led by shamans or healers involving incantations and spirit invocation.

These practices are deemed innovations (bid’ah) that propagate superstition and polytheism, which are strictly prohibited in Islam.

Traditionally, Bubu Mengalai involves the use of a bamboo fish trap (bubu), believed to serve as a vessel or medium to summon spirits during ceremonies.

While the ritual holds cultural and spiritual significance, it also carries elements that conflict with Islamic principles, particularly when Quranic verses are recited out of context.

However, the council clarified that Bubu Mengalai is permissible if performed purely as a cultural expression without incorporating mystical or superstitious elements.

In such cases, the dance serves as a reflection of Sabah’s rich heritage and may continue within the bounds of Islamic teachings, the council said.- January 23, 2025.