FT Mufti Bill not drafted in haste, no influence from any party - minister

Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) Mohd Na'im Mokhtar has assured that the Federal Territories Mufti Bill was not drafted hastily but rather through a careful and lengthy process.

In explaining this, Na’im (above) shared that a committee was formed to study and draft a specific Act for the mufti three years ago.

The committee included representatives from the Federal Territories Mufti Office, the Islamic Development Department (Jakim), the Attorney-General's Chambers, the Syariah Judiciary Department, the Federal Territories Syariah Court, the Federal Territories Islamic Religious Council, and the Selangor Mufti Department.

“The drafting of the bill is an effort by the government aimed at elevating and empowering the institution of the mufti in the Federal Territories.

“Through this empowerment, the field of fatwa issuance and the development of Islamic law can be administered in an organised, transparent, and authoritative manner to enhance the effectiveness of Islamic governance in Malaysia,” he said in a statement today.

He added that the drafting process was carried out in an orderly manner and in accordance with the Federal Constitution and existing laws.

Concerns over bill

The bill, set to be tabled for its second and third readings in this Parliament session, has been criticised by various parties, including Perlis ruler Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Putra Jamalullail, who described it as carrying a “narrow interpretation” of Sunni Islam and lacking inclusivity.

Lawyer Latheefa Koya warned that it could have serious implications for Muslims in Malaysia, while the NGO Sisters in Islam expressed concerns that it would grant unlimited powers to religious authorities.

Recently, Perlis mufti Mohd Asri Zainul Abidin invited Na’im to engage in a dialogue to assess the minister's ability to defend the bill.

Na’im did not comment on the invite in his statement but emphasised that the drafting of the bill was not influenced by any particular party.

"All parties are advised to be cautious with any statements not based on facts, as they may create unnecessary polemics around this noble effort," the minister added.

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