The Terengganu Syariah Judicial Department (JKST) today suggested the state government to consider building a special detention centre for syariah offenders.

Terengganu Syariah chief judge Wan Mohd Zakri Wan Mohd said this was because the department felt the need to separate the syariah offenders from those caught for criminal offences.

“The syariah offenders are only involved in immoral activities, like khalwat (close proximity) or deviationist teachings.

“They can be rehabilitated  spiritually through religious education. If possible, we do not want them to be punished like criminals,” he told a media conference after the department's innovation day and presentation of excellent service award to its staff in Kuala Terengganu today.

Wan Mohd Zakri said the department would submit a proposal on the matter to the state government through the State Religious and Malay Customs Council (Maidam).

- Bernama