S'gor ruler rues 'dangerous trend' of politicians issuing 'fatwa'

Selangor ruler Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah has warned against the “dangerous trend” of politicians issuing “fatwa” to influence the public.

As the chairperson of the National Council of Islamic Religious Affairs, the ruler noted in a statement that “fatwa” can only be released by state fatwa committees or muftis, after the approval of the respective state rulers.

In addition, the process involves more layers, including the Council of Rulers, and the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, he explained.

"This is to ensure that the issued 'fatwa' is accurate and benefits Muslims and all rakyat. If all 'fatwa' is allowed to be issued by politicians and political leaders, it will definitely cause strife, division and violence in society which will eventually destroy the nation’s civilisation."

While Sultan Sharafuddin did not mention names, he is believed to be referring to Perikatan Nasional chairperson Muhyiddin Yassin, who is under police probe over his purported “fatwa” during the recent Pulai and Simpang Jeram by-elections in Johor.

The Pagoh MP had his statement recorded this morning and the investigation paper is expected to be submitted to the Attorney-General's Chambers soon.

Last week, police said they had opened two investigations against him over his remarks during the by-elections, where Muhyiddin allegedly touched on the 3Rs (race, religion and royalty).

They include an incident where the Bersatu president allegedly told voters that it is “haram” for them to vote for Pakatan Harapan’s candidate for Pulai, Suhaizan Kaiat.

The case is being investigated by a police special task force on 3R, under Section 505(b) of the Penal Code and Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act.

Act against instigators

Sultan Sharafuddin urged politicians to immediately stop the irresponsible act of issuing “fatwa” and preserve harmony among the rakyat.

"I'm not willing to see division among the people due to the irresponsible act of certain politicians. My reminder is not biased towards anyone or any political party.

"In fact, I chose to issue this statement after the state elections and the by-elections to prevent my statement from being misconstrued as siding with a political alliance. Do not use religion to garner support as it is the rakyat who will become victims of politicians who use religion for their personal gain."

Sultan Sharafuddin further urged the police to take proactive action in investigating and acting against those who use sensitive topics involving race, religion, and royalty, so it would serve as a lesson to others who want to do the same in the future.

In pursuit of power and position, one should not forget that unity is the core of a country's success, the ruler reminded, adding that without unity, the nation will be left out in all aspects.

“Extreme polarisation will cause radicalism and extremism, which in turn, will threaten national security.

“Leaders and politicians should instead inculcate harmony among the rakyat, as each race has played their respective parts in developing the country's economy and culture,” he added.

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