The Terengganu government’s plan to penalise Muslim men who do not attend Friday prayers will hurt the state’s economy, says MCA.

It will turn away tourists and make Terengganu look bad to foreign investors, Terengganu MCA chief Toh Chin Yaw said.

“We understand the state administration’s efforts to uplift religious and moral awareness of the people.

“However, decisions on new policies such as the proposed punishment for errant Muslim men not observing Friday prayers, must enhance the current policies and environment that will continue to attract foreign investors and tourists for the continuous development and prosperity of the country,” he said in a statement.

Toh said the state should aim for policies which reflect Terengganu as a moderate and progressive state.

Terengganu Menteri Besar Ahmad Razif Abdul Rahman on Tuesday said the state will bar male Muslims from being at public places during Friday prayer time.

Those who are caught in public areas at the time would be sent for counselling while repeat offenders will face legal action, Bernama reported.

The local Islamic authorities are also empowered to act against Muslims who dress or behave indecently.