KUALA LUMPUR – The religious minister has slammed a political leader’s “fatwa” proclamation against voting for the Pakatan Harapan candidate in the Pulai by-election, cautioning that such statements would only serve to “punish” those with opposing views.
Religious affairs minister Datuk Mohd Na’im Mokhtar said the tendency to issue directives without proper guidance will lead to misunderstanding in society and violate the sanctity of religious teachings.
“As the body entrusted to maintain the sanctity of Islam, the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) is concerned with the actions of certain parties that issue statements punishing those who do not share the same beliefs.
“This will be a catalyst for further division in society that threatens national security,” he said in a statement.
He added that the country has authoritative bodies to issue religious directives (hukum) and fatwa on certain matters.
“I hope we can all respect this and not be influenced by directives aimed at furthering one’s political interests.”
Na’im also advised everyonel to stop political campaigns that promote racial and religious sentiments.
Previously, Perikatan Nasional chairman Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin issued a “political fatwa” against voting for unity government party candidates as purely using religion for political gains.
His comments garnered much backlash from parties in the unity government.
The Pulai and Simpang Jeram by-elections are being called due to the unexpected vacancy of the seats following the death of the incumbent, Datuk Seri Salahuddin Ayub, who was also the domestic trade and cost of living minister, on July 23.
The Election Commission set the by-elections for the two seats to be held simultaneously, with early voting on September 5 and polling day on September 9. – September 4, 2023