Indelible ink permissible in Islam, says fatwa committee

The National Fatwa Committee today decided that the use of indelible ink in the 13th general election is allowable and should be implemented.

Its chairman Abdul Shukor Husin said the decision was made based on three categories namely the ink is not unclean, not hazardous and permeable.

"The ink if applied to Muslims can absorb water and does not pose any problem in performing prayers," he told reporters after chairing a meeting on the matter in Kuala Lumpur today.

The meeting, held at the Malaysian Islamic Development Department (Jakim), was attended by representatives from the Election Commission (EC), Chemistry Department, Health Ministry and the muftis.

In December, the EC announced that the 'silver nitrate' premanent ink would be used for the 13th general election.

- Bernama