TORONTO – The use of Scottish terrier dogs during the opening ceremony of the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow has been deemed “disrespectful” and “shameful,” according to some politicians and religious leaders in Malaysia.
During last week’s ceremony, a parade of athletes were led by Scottish terriers wearing a jacket bearing the name of a country.
Critics called for an apology from organizers as some some Muslims view dogs as “unclean” according to Islamic culture.
“Malaysia and all Islamic countries deserve an apology from the organizer,” said Mohamad Sabu, the deputy president of the opposition Pan-Malaysian Islamic Party. “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.”
“It is hoped this incident can teach other Western countries to be more respectful in the future.”
Dato Ibrahim Bin, a far-right politician, called the dogs “shameful” and “offensive.”
On Twitter, many praised the dogs, stating they “stole the show.”
A Glasgow 2014 spokesman told the Daily Mail that no complaints about the dogs were received from any of the nations taking part.
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