Surau in azan row wants issue settled in 'black and white'

 

The surau in Penang at the centre of the azan row wants the matter to be resolved in writing to prevent a recurrence.

Surau Sayidina Umar at Tri Pinnacle, Tanjung Tokong, Penang, has demanded the joint management body (JMB) of the condominium express its commitment to settle the issue of loudspeaker use during the call to prayer (azan) in "black and white".

Its committee chairperson, Muhammad Nasir Abd Majid, said having the agreement in black and white was important to prevent the recent incident from recurring.

He said the same issue may arise again if there is a change in JBM members.

"If there is nothing in black and white, later when the JMB changes (hand), we may have to make a new application," he told Malaysiakini.

Public concern

The issue of banning or protesting the use of loudspeakers to sound out the call to prayer from the surau became a public concern after it was raised by an "activist", Mohd Sophian Mohd Zain, through social media.

It became more heated when a meeting recording between JMB representatives and some residents of Tri Pinnacle went viral.

The incident is said to have occurred in March and showcased a tense atmosphere when the issue was discussed.

However, Penang Deputy Chief Minister (I) Ahmad Zakiyuddin Abdul Rahman intervened and held discussions with both parties.

The Penang Islamic affairs executive council chairperson thinks the issue has become heated because of Mohd Sophian's actions to spread it and "mislead" the public.

After the discussion between the two parties, JMB Tri Pinnacle chairperson Alex Low apologised, claiming that his side had no intention of banning the call to prayer from the surau.

"We are sorry and disappointed that a closed-door meeting has been leaked to the public.

"The video caused confusion. We are trying to manage and resolve the issue amicably with the surau management team," he added yesterday.

Nasir said he hoped there would be no more such issues happening in any other surau in the country. after this

"That's why we insist on wanting JMB to give a commitment in black and white," he said.

Hot issue

Meanwhile, when contacted by Malaysiakini, the JMB seemed reluctant to give its commitment in writing.

JMB Tri Pinnacle member, Lim Beng Hai, said his party did support any move to strengthen unity, peace, and mutual respect among people of different faiths and cultures in this country.

He said the existing differences are part of the people living peacefully in this country.

"Whether (the understanding is expressed) in black or white, it still won't make any difference," he said.

Lim also reiterated that the JMB involved had never prevented the azan from being called, but it became a hot issue after being taken advantage of by certain parties.

"We appeal to all parties responsible to stop it immediately," he said. - Mkini