Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin of Terengganu has inked his approval of the PAS state government's much debated Syariah Criminal Offences Enactment after being briefed on the bill last week.

According to Terengganu Menteri Besar Abdul Hadi Awang's press secretary Zahari Mohd today, the Sultan gave his consent after hearing explanations from state ministers last Thursday.

"Before the Sultan signs any amendment to the state constitution, the state government is required to give the necessary explanations on the law," said Zahari when contacted.

The bill, which evoked strong criticism from various quarters, was passed by the state assembly during a sitting on July 8.

Although the Sultan's approval was welcomed by the PAS government, it was not vital as state legislation provides for enactments to take effect 30 days after receiving approval of the state assembly even without the Sultan's consent.

Last month, Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad said the federal government will obstruct the implementation of the bill if it is within its powers to do so.

"The government will study the powers vested in the federal government in this matter and if it has the power, the government will obstruct the implementation of the proposed bill which is unfair...which is against the teachings of Islam," he said.

The Attorney-General's Chambers later said it will look into the matter once the bill has been passed.

Asked when the bill would be presented to Parliament, Zahari said this would be done when the situation calls for further action.

On the Terengganu police's refusal to assist in enforcing Syariah laws, Zahari said representatives of the state government have not met with the police to discuss the matter.

He added that the law can still be effectively implemented by the state Religious Affairs Department's enforcement division.

Palace officials could not be reached for comment.

Non-Muslim rep

In another development, Zahari said the state assembly will hold further discussions to amend the state constitution to allow for the appointment of a non-Muslim representative as a member of the state legislative assembly.

"If none of the elected representatives are non-Muslims, (the amendment) will allow for the appointment of such a person," he explained.

Asked if the state government has identified any potential candidate to fulfill this role, Zahari said the respective non-Muslim communities would be consulted before any appointment is made.

At present, all elected members of the Terengganu state assembly are Muslims, with PAS members making up a two-third majority.