Don't turn mosques, surau into political arena - minister

 

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Mohd Na'im Mokhtar today called for mosques and surau not to be used as political arenas.

He said when mosques and surau are involved in partisan politics, it will create tension in the community - in addition to tainting the institutions as zones not free from partisan politics.

The minister said this in response to efforts of certain parties to hold a political rally in the capital.

“I’m concerned about the tendency of certain parties to turn mosques and surau into initial platforms for gatherings, which can certainly disrupt the function of the mosque as a centre to unify Muslims,” he said in a statement today.

The media reported that the “Himpunan Aman Selamatkan Malaysia” rally, scheduled for tomorrow (Sept 16) will start from Kampung Baru Jamek Mosque, Kuala Lumpur.

Respect rulers’ decree

“All parties are urged to obey the decree issued by the Malay Rulers to not misuse mosques and surau for partisan political activities," he added.

Na’im then said the Federal Territories Islamic Religious Department has been instructed to monitor mosques and surau in the Federal Territories and take legal action if any party violates existing laws.

“The Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) hopes that all parties pay heed to authoritative agencies, to safeguard the image of mosques and surau and ensure the well-being of the country,” he said.

- Bernama