The Commonwealth Games, which opened last week in Glasgow, Scotland in the presence of the Queen, was, like all sporting events these days, ushered into existence to the accompaniment of a lavish and visually impressive opening ceremony.
But amidst the dancing mechanical giants and gay kisses, the organizers also sought to celebrate Scottishness by having each team led out by Scottie dogs wearing tartan coats embroidered with the name of the team.
Social media, predictably, fell in love with the doggies, however now political and religious leaders in Malaysia have cried foul, and are accusing the organizers of disrespect towards Muslims by forcing their teams to be led out by a dog.
Matters were aggravated by the fact that the dog assigned to the Malaysian team refused to move and had to be carried around the stadium.
Some Muslims believe that dogs are unclean.
Mohamad Sabu, the deputy president of the opposition Pan-Malaysian Islamic Party, told The Daily Telegraph: “This is just so disrespectful to Malaysia and Muslims—especially as it happened during Ramadan. Muslims are not allowed to touch dogs, so the organiser should have been more aware and sensitive on this issue.”
Dato Ibrahim Bin Ali, a far-right politician, former MP and founder and president of Malay supremacist group Perkasa, also called for an apology.
“I think it is unbecoming. The hosts have not been sensitive enough—especially in a so-called knowledgeable and civilised society like Britain…It is shameful and has offended not only Malaysia as a Muslim country, but Muslims around the world.”
A spokesman for the games said they had received no complaints following the Opening Ceremony.
