'Syariah judges must uphold Islamic principles of justice even when challenged'

Selangor ruler Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah has decreed all syariah judges to always uphold the Islamic principles of justice when exercising their judicial power, even when questioned and challenged by certain parties.

His Royal Highness said attempts by some parties to challenge the jurisdiction and decisions of syariah courts by bringing legal questions for interpretation by civil courts should not be used as a reason for fear or hesitation in delivering fair judgments.

"In Islamic jurisprudence, every decision made by a syariah judge is based on the evidence presented in court. In the judgment, the judge must ensure that the decision made is fair and brings justice to all parties."

The sultan said this at the presentation ceremony of appointment letters to Palace Officials, Permanent Panel Members of the Syariah Court of Selangor, Members of the Selangor Fatwa Committee, Senior Registrar, and Registrars of Wali Raja at Istana Bukit Kayangan today.

Elaborating, Sultan Sharafuddin said syariah judges are guided by written laws, including the Syariah Court Evidence (State of Selangor) Enactment 2003, the Syariah Criminal Procedure (State of Selangor) Enactment 2003, and the Islamic Family Law (State of Selangor) Enactment 2003.

At the same time, he also expressed hope that syariah judges would ensure no unreasonable delays in handling and making decisions on court proceedings, as such delays could negatively affect the rights and welfare of those involved.

In addition, the ruler said syariah judges must remain vigilant and keep up with current legal developments, particularly those related to the Federal Constitution that impact the administration of Islam in the state.

"I also wish to remind syariah judges to always be prepared and equip themselves with the necessary legal skills and knowledge of Islamic law to strengthen Islamic justice," he said.

He added that every registrar of marriage, divorce, and reconciliation for Muslims should also carry out their responsibilities with integrity and avoid involvement in any form of syndicate marriage activities, which are becoming increasingly rampant of late.

Letters of appointment

During the event, Sultan Sharafuddin presented the letter of appointment as Orang Besar Istana to Raja Reza Raja Zaib Shah, effective today.

The sultan also presented the appointment letters to Mohd Nadzri Abdul Rahman, who has been appointed as a Permanent Panel Member of the Selangor Court of Appeal, and to Ashraf Md Hashim as a member of the Selangor Fatwa Committee.

Also conferred at the event were the appointment letters to Mohd Farid Hadi Sharif and Mohammad Khair Zainal as Senior Registrars for Muslim Marriage, Divorce, and Reconciliation, while Mohd Zainudin Wan Yusoff and Mohd Anuar Baharudin were appointed as Registrars of Wali Raja.

Sultan Sharafuddin reminded those entrusted with these responsibilities to always strengthen their integrity and carry out governance to the highest standards, based on the true values of Islam.

"Let us all pray to Allah SWT, asking for His protection and guidance, so that Selangor may remain a prosperous and flourishing state, with its people continuing to live in peace and harmony," he said.

- Bernama

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