Ulu Tiram attacker buried separately; an eye opener to non-Muslims about Islamic burial ritual

THE attack on the Ulu Tiram police station in Johor which resulted in the death of two police officers as well as the perpetrator has shocked the nation.

As Malaysians digest this violent episode, news has filtered through that the Johor Fatwa committee had instructed that the attacker’s body should be buried separately (in a secluded corner) of the Kampung Sungai Tiram Muslim cemetery.

According to media reports, the Johor fatwa committee also ruled that burial arrangements for the suspect’s body could only be conducted at his family’s home or the hospital where his body was brought to. This was opposed to it being conducted at a mosque or surau.

The committee said the ruling on the suspect’s remains was a show of condemnation for his actions, especially for the slaying of two policemen.

“The committee urges the public not to get involved or show sympathy towards the suspect for his actions,” it said in a statement.

This development was discussed on Meanwhile In Malaysia Facebook forum. This is a sample of the comments.

 

A netizen voiced discomfort at the post but was met with quite a few retorts saying this was the correct procedure for conducting last rites as outlined by the relevant religious authorities. Some showed their disgust by asking the commenter whether she was an acquaintance of the deceased.

A few netizens even suggested that the same be meted out to extremist politicians whose words and conduct could possibly “inspired” the attack. Or to corrupt politicians so as to serve as a reminder to others not to accept bribes.

Some suggested a public shaming with exposure of the attacker’s identity.

One comment probably reflects many Malaysians’ thoughts as the motive of the attacker remains shrouded in mystery.

Some reflected the mood of many citizens by declaring the decree to be too good for the attacker.

One netizen’s comment about the families of the two policemen victims expecting them to come home after duty that fateful night hits the nail on the head. “Young lives have been taken; families ruined – please think before acting” was the underlying message.

Judging from the comments, many were in favour of the decree, believing that the actions of the attacker should not be sanctified with the cloak of religion.

In fact, some were demanding for even more drastic “public reminders”; suffice to say those suggestions will not bring back the two fallen police officers nor calm an alarmed populace.

FocusM and MMKtT wishes to convey its deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of the two officers who did not come home that night. – Focus Malaysia