Oman’s Assistant Grand Mufti calls for PUBG ban

Muscat: The Assistant Grand Mufti of Oman, Sheikh Kahlan Al Kharusi, has called for the computer game PUBG (Player Unknown’s Battlegrounds) to be banned, citing fears that the game can be addictive and time-wasting.

“There is no religious law regarding entertainment that applies to this game. It can lead to addiction, mind and soul distraction. The game also captivates the ones who play and this can lead to dire health with mental and psychological effects. It’s indisputable that the game is popular even in non-Muslim communities, which proves that this game’s impacts are greater,” the Assistant Grand Mufti said.

Sheikh Kahlan added: “It’s a time-wasting game which makes the user oblivious to what is going on around him. It’s like some other games which lead them to inflict harm upon themselves and others and can lead to committing murder and even suicide.”

The Assistant Grand Mufti of Oman explained that there is no benefit to playing this game and it can destroy the morals and virtues of society.

“It’s forbidden in Islam in Sharia. Frankly, we call for the blocking and banning of this game. Procedures should be taken to block this game. The authorities should take responsibility for it and take action to ban this,” he added.

PUBG is an online multiplayer game developed and published by PUBG Corporation, a subsidiary of South Korean video game company Bluehole.