Ensure mosques manage Friday prayers traffic - don tells authorities

 

Islamic architecture professor Tajuddin Rasdi has urged religious authorities and local councils to step up enforcement to address traffic congestion linked to Friday prayers, warning that the issue risks fuelling racial tension.

This comes after the incident that prompted objections to Friday prayers at the Taman Seraya Surau in Ampang. Friday prayers have been held there since 2019.

In a statement, Tajuddin, a member of the National Unity Advisory Council, said traffic congestion has long been a source of friction among communities.

Alluding to a 2017 reported riot at Taman Austin Perdana in Johor Bahru, he said such issues have “always sparked racial tension and even non-Muslims have been beaten up for honking to clear traffic”.

Impose fines

Commenting on the Ampang incident, Tajuddin called on state Religious Affairs Departments to monitor surau and mosques granted permission to hold Friday prayers, to ensure there is no obstruction of residential driveways or nearby premises.

He also urged municipal councils to closely oversee the matter and impose fines on both places of worship and vehicle owners involved in such infractions.

“Surau and mosques must hire women People’s Volunteer Corps (Rela) members to manage traffic flow during Friday prayers and ensure no blocking of driveways.

“The Religious Affairs Department must reprimand any surau or mosques that cause traffic disruption and blockages, and if need be, cancel the permission for Friday prayers to be held if the violations persist,” Tajuddin said.

On Friday, the surau management at Taman Seraya lodged police reports against an individual who allegedly objected to the azan (call to prayer) and the holding of Friday prayers there.

Teratai assemblyperson Yew Jia Haur’s service centre - which tried to mediate the dispute - had also lodged a police report against the person. - Mkini