Raja of Perlis: FT Mufti Bill carries narrow definition of Sunni Islam

The Raja of Perlis has said that the proposed bill put forward by the Federal Territories mufti contains a narrow definition of Sunni Islam that would even cause other Muslim countries to be easily excluded.

Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Tuanku Syed Putra Jamalullail described it as carrying a “narrow definition” and not being inclusive.

The bill - which would be in force in Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, and Labuan - defines what it means to be Ahli Sunnah Wal Jamaah, or a Muslim who practices Sunni Islam.

It defines it in terms of faith based on the Al-Asyairah and Al-Maturidiah schools of theology and the Imam Shafie jurisprudence while embracing three other schools of jurisprudence and the spiritual teachings of Imam Ghazali and Imam Junaid.

In responding, Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin gave examples of countries such as Saudi Arabia and Qatar that can also be excluded from Ahli Sunnah if the same definition is applied.

“Prioritise the attitude of caution, long-term thinking and wisdom, and politeness in every action.

“Let not a decision taken today cause a prolonged dispute,” said Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin.

He said this kind of action is not inclusive and even leads to sectarian elements among Muslims in this country.

“I do not take into account that matters related to the Al-Asyairah and Al-Maturidiah schools and limiting these schools of thought have been decided by consensus and in accordance with the principle of shura in the meeting of the Conference of Rulers.

“Therefore I do not want the Conference of Rulers to be dragged and used to support this bill,” he said.

Curbing freedom of thought

The Federal Territories Mufti bill was tabled in Parliament on July 2.

Perli mufti Mohd Asri Zainul Abidin is opposed to such a definition, describing it as an attempt to restrict academic freedom of thought.

Commenting on this, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim had previously said there is no dispute on the Sunni matter.

“Just that sometimes the definition is discussed,” he said.

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