PETALING JAYA: The use of animal symbols and images during Chinese New Year is something that must be respected by everyone, says the Malaysian Islamic Development Department (Jakim). Chinese communities around the world will celebrate the first day of the Chinese New Year on Feb 16. In Chinese astrology, each year of the 12-year zodiac cycle is represented by an animal. The 12 traditional Chinese zodiac animals include a dog and a pig, two animals Muslims consider unclean. In 2016, Jakim recommended that popular pretzel chain Auntie Anne's change the name of its "Pretzel Dog" to "Pretzel Sausage".

Source: The Star February 06, 2018 14:48 UTC