Kuala Lumpur: Exposing the ‘aib’ (shame) of one’s partner in public, particularly on social media, harms personal and family dignity and contradicts Islamic teachings and societal values, stated Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs).

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Mohd Na’im emphasized that in today’s technologically advanced world, social media is often used for expressing feelings and sharing personal stories. However, he cautioned against sharing everything online. His comments were in response to a viral video of an influencer challenging her husband to drink breast milk for money.

Mohd Na’im warned that exposing a partner’s shame online is not a solution and that such challenges could lead to slander, hatred, and family and societal divisions. He expressed concern that this behavior could result in a loss of blessings in marriage and contribute to rising divorce rates.

He referred to an explanation by the Office of the Mufti of the Federal Territories in Bayan Linnas Series 308. This explanation aligns with the Egyptian Mufti Department and the Hanafi school of thought, declaring it haram for a husband to drink his wife’s breast milk. The argument is that breast milk is part of the human body, which can only be used in cases of extreme necessity.

Mohd Na’im explained that even if a husband and wife are not considered ‘mahram’ due to technicalities, the act of a husband intentionally drinking his wife’s breast milk without a legitimate medical reason is inappropriate. Breastfeeding a baby under two years is crucial for healthy development, and any action undermining a baby’s right to breast milk, including such challenges, should be avoided.

Mohd Na’im cited a hadith narrated by Muslim, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding a partner’s dignity, as marriage is an amanah (trust) to be preserved. He urged adopting a mature and responsible approach to marital issues, protecting family honor, and maintaining relationships with love, affection, and patience. Islam, he noted, teaches couples to bring happiness in line with Islamic law.