Muslim Political leaders, including members of Parliament, are forbidden to become Islamic preachers and give 'khutbah' (sermons) at mosques in Terengganu.

 

This ban starts from early next month, Malay daily Berita Harian reported today.

 

Terengganu commissioner of religious affairs, Rozali Saleh, said the Sultan of Terengganu, Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin ( right ), wants mosques free from partisan politics that could contribute to the disintegration of society.

"Portraits of leaders and logos are also banned. This in line with the sultan's orders, He wants mosques to become centres for the Islamic community and stand united, regardless of political affiliations."

 

Rozali who was launching a 'surau' at Jabi yesterday, said that the ban was issued through a circular distributed at the end of last month.

 

He added that 11 surau and mosques have been identified as being headquarters for certain parties over the last 32 years. 

 

"The department is examining this from every angle before making a decision on them," he said.