Hasan: Sultan's statement shows bid to proselytise
The Selangor executive councillor in charge of Islamic affairs, Hasan Ali, is happy with Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah's decree today, saying it showed there were attempts to proselytise at the Damansara Utama Methodist Church (DUMC) on Aug 3.
The Selangor executive councillor in charge of Islamic affairs, Hasan Ali, is happy with Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah's decree today, saying it showed there were attempts to proselytise at the Damansara Utama Methodist Church (DUMC) on Aug 3.
In a statement today, Hasan said he thanked the sultan for his statement on the matter.
"I view the address made by His Royal Highness in two ways, namely he is stern, wanting action to prevent proselytising.
"Secondly, the address is viewed within its spirit where the sultan, as a ruler and guardian of Islamic affairs, has given his commitment to Islam and concern over the issue.
"I am also glad over the sultan's address as this shows there were attempts to influence the people's faith at DUMC last Aug 3.
"I am also reliefed that the investigations by the Selangor Islamic Affairs Department (Jais) were done within the provisions of law, and they did not put the law behind them by having this operation," Hasan said in a statement.
'Islamic authorities acted professionally'
Although Hasan said there were attempts to influence the people's faith, Sultan Sharafuddin had said in his decree that there was insufficient evidence to prosecute .
"After carefully deliberating the report by Jais and after obtaining advice from religious authorities and legal experts, we are in agreement that there will be no prosecution against any party," the sultan said.
He said after scrutinising the Jais report on the "search" carried out at the Damansara Utama Methodist Church (DUMC), he was convinced that the department had acted correctly.
"We are satisfied that the actions of Jais were correct and did not breach any law enforceable in Selangor," Sultan Sharafuddin added.
Hasan said based on the two perspectives, he could conclude that the sultan believed the Selangor Islamic Affairs Council and Jais had acted professionally.
"I will meet with Jais director and the enforcement director to further understand and take lessons from the decree.
"I will also ensure that there will be a high degree of professionalism in their enforcement activity and ensure they are equipped with up to date equipment.
"This is to ensure that each case can be defended in the face of justice," Hasan said, amd he thanked the Sultan for making the announcement.
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