The controversy over the pronouncement of talaq via SMS refuses to die down as more women question the rationale of the Gombak Timur Syariah court in allowing this variation to the Muslim divorce procedure.

Among the issues being debated is whether this constitutes the practise of double standards in implementing divorce proceedings.

Women and Family Development Minister Shahrizat Abdul Jalil said she would raise the matter at tomorrow's cabinet meeting as well as hold a discussion with the Islamic Development Department (Jakim) to clarify the issues involved.

Shahrizat, speaking at a fund raising and publications launch organised by Sisters in Islam this morning, also posed the question as to why women come off worst in court decisions.

"Judges interpret the laws before them. Why is it that whenever we interpret Islamic laws with regard to women, it is always against them?"

"But I must say that this case is not a reflection of all the other good and sensible decisions made in the spirit of Syariah laws. This is only one decision.

She also said the case would have to be discussed with Jakim and that there is a need for review of the situation.

"We have to be very careful and vigilant. We are monitoring the situation because we do not want this to set a precedent. We have to make sure that the Muslim Family Laws are made clear so as not to allow such a divergent interpretation of Islam," she added.

Difficulties for women

Extending the discussion, a number of women sought to address the issue as one indicative of double standards.

"Whenever something is in a man's favour, it is allowed. But when women seek justice or fairness, it is not made easier," said Mariam Abdul of Association of Women Workers of Malaysia (Perwanis).

Elaborating, Silam Hassan of Wanita Ikram said: "It is very biased because we know that, when women seek divorce, they have to go through stringent procedures, counselling, and are required to fulfill all kinds of requirements."

Faridah Khalid of the National Council Women's Organization added: "(Divorce has usually been) easy for the men. Now its made even easier."

All those interviewed also agreed on the need for wider consultation and study before such decisions are made as these affect Muslim women.

They also pointed out that the image of Islam, the country and its Syariah court system have been adversely affected by the publicity given to the decision. Coverage has been picked up by the foreign media, such as the BBC .

Last Thursday, the Gombak Timur court ruled that it was acceptable to pronounce talaq by SMS, during divorce proceedings to end the 18-month marriage of Shamsudin Latif and Azida Fazlina Abdul Latif.

Shamsuddin had reportedly sent his wife a SMS message stating: Kalau engkau tak keluar dari rumah mak bapak engkau, jatuh talak tiga. (If you do not leave your parents'' house, you will be divorced.)

Earlier at the SIS' fund raising campaign and publications launch was officiated by prime minister's wife Dr Siti Hasmah Ali ( photo ).