Don’t use suraus, mosques to campaign for state polls, says Selangor ruler

 

Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah says the people are watching the behaviour of politicians before they vote. (Bernama pic)

PETALING JAYA: Selangor’s Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah has instructed the state’s Islamic Religious Council (Mais) to issue regular statements prohibiting politicians from using suraus or mosques to campaign in the lead up to the state elections.

He also urged all individuals involved in the state elections to abide by the rules and respect each other.

“Keep in mind that the behaviour of politicians during the campaigning period will be witnessed and judged by the people before they make a decision (vote),” he said in his address at the opening of the first meeting of the sixth session of the Selangor state legislative assembly today.

Sultan Sharafudin reminded politicians to keep mosques and suraus in Selangor free from politics or any elements that could compromise the unity and harmony of Muslims.

He said mosques and suraus should not be the source of arguments and disputes that end up dividing Muslims because of political differences and revenge.

“This happens when certain people take the opportunity to insult, slander and even accuse certain individuals and groups for political reasons when delivering sermons at mosques and suraus,” he said.

“I am worried that this kind of culture, if not curbed, will continue to divide the Muslims, especially the Malays.” - FMT