Bebas: Mosques must be open to others but no politicking

The NGO says there is nothing wrong with non-Muslims entering mosques, calling PAS' comments against the spirit of Islam.

PETALING JAYA: Mosques should be open to those who wish to access them but it should not be used for politicking.

Bebas member Azrul Mohd Khalib said that what PAS was calling for was exclusivity and discrimination, which was not in the spirit of Islam.

“So the support or non-support for PAS’ shariah bill (RUU 355) has nothing to do with whether or not a person can or cannot enter a mosque,” Azrul told FMT.

He was referring to Selangor PAS’ Dewan Ulama secretary Muhammad Najhan Halim, who said those who opposed the amendment to the shariah bill did not deserve to enter the mosque.

The PAS leader was referring to the incident in which PKR Subang MP R Sivarasa delivered a speech inside a mosque when on a visit to hand out contributions to mosques and surau in his constituency last week.

Azrul however echoed the sentiments of the Sultan of Selangor, Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, who said no politicking should be allowed in mosques.

“I honestly don’t know what he (Sivarasa) said or did not say.

“As the Sultan of Selangor has indicated, he has put a ban on all politicking in the confines of a mosque.

“This is very good guidance that should be followed by all parties, and that includes PAS.”

Azrul added that there was nothing wrong with a non-Muslim being inside a mosque to wish those observing the holy month of Ramadan.

The sultan was reportedly upset with the action of Sivarasa, after some quarters alleged the politician had delivered a speech in the Masjid An-Nur Kampung Melayu on May 24.

The management of the mosque where Sivarasa gave his speech was summoned on May 26 to provide details on the incident. An investigation paper has been submitted to the Selangor palace.

Several photos of Sivarasa in the premises of the mosque went viral over social media, raising the ire of certain parties. -FMT