KUALA LUMPUR – The Sultan of Selangor, Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, has underscored that mosques and suraus in the state must remain free from partisan influence and should never be exploited as platforms for personal or political agendas.
His Royal Highness reminded that mosques are not political arenas, nor places to sow hatred or division among Muslims. Instead, they must serve as centres of worship, dakwah and unity for the ummah.
“I will not tolerate politicians who attempt to hide behind religious talks and use mosques and suraus to serve their respective political agendas.
I also do not wish to hear of any ‘nazirs’ (mosque officials) or members of mosque and surau committees who are directly involved in partisan politics, including holding political positions while simultaneously serving as nazirs or imams, as this could disrupt harmony among local congregations,” he said.
The Sultan made the remarks during the presentation of appointment instruments to nazirs and imams of mosques across Selangor, involving 850 individuals, at Balairong Seri, Istana Alam Shah, Klang.
Sultan Sharafuddin further emphasised that the roles of nazir and imam are sacred trusts, not political posts to be contested for personal gain, and will ultimately be accountable before Allah.
He cautioned against disputes over mosque and surau management positions, noting that such conflicts only breed dissatisfaction, hostility and division among Muslims.
“I do not want the Malays to be divided due to greed for positions and power, which in the end will only harm the Malay community itself,” he said.
On financial matters, His Royal Highness stressed that mosque and surau funds must be managed with trust, transparency and integrity, strictly in line with regulations set by the Selangor Islamic Religious Department (JAIS) and the Selangor Islamic Religious Council (MAIS).
He directed that financial reports be submitted every four months to ensure good governance and maintain public confidence.
“I will not tolerate any form of misappropriation of mosque and surau funds, as these funds come from public donations and belong to Muslims. They must be used responsibly and in accordance with Islamic principles for the benefit of the ummah.
I do not want Islam to be viewed negatively by followers of other religions. Enough is enough. The sanctity of Islam must not continue to be tarnished by cases of misappropriation involving Malay Muslims, some of whom have even been brought to court for corruption, misuse of funds and abuse of power,” said the Sultan. – January 28, 2026