Reality Show Seeking Progressive Muslim Leader Is Popular In Malaysia

AP reported yesterday on a reality show that is garnering large audiences on an Islamic-themed cable channel in Malaysia. "Imam Muda" (Young Leader) is seeking a pious but progressive young Muslim man who can show that religion can remain relevant to Malaysian young people. The ten men, between 18 and 27, ultimately picked as contestants for the show are photogenic and could pass as models. The contestants are sequestered in a mosque hostel. The tasks they have performed, featured on different episodes, include performing Muslim ablutions on two unclaimed corpses and burying the bodies; and counseling residents of a shelter for women and homeless children. The ultimate winner will receive an all-expense paid pilgrimage to Mecca, an automobile, a position as prayer leader in a major mosque, a scholarship to study in Saudi Arabia and $6400 (US) cash.