A Reality Show Where Islam Is the Biggest Star

[NASSIR]

KUALA LUMPUR JOURNAL

 

A Reality Show Where Islam Is the Biggest Star

 

 

 

...The competition is called "Imam Muda," or "Young Leader" - a Malaysian venture into religious-themed reality TV.

 

The basic premise may replicate that of reality shows like "American Idol" around the globe, but here, inside an auditorium at one of Kuala Lumpur's largest mosques, are notable variations on the tried-and-true formula.

 

The prize pool, too, offers a clear indication of the detour the show takes from the usual reality show script. Cash and a new car are up for grabs, but

the winner will also be offered a job as an imam, or religious leader, a scholarship to study in Saudi Arabia and an all-expenses-paid pilgrimage to Mecca, Islam's holiest city.

 

Source: The NYTimes