K'tan mufti: Law on 'consensual' statutory rape cases needs review

Kelantan mufti Shukri Mohamed said the call by Kelantan police chief Yusoff Mamat for the authorities to take legal action against both parties in a “consensual” statutory rape case warrants careful consideration.

He said that while the suggestion reflects Yusoff’s personal view, it raises essential issues concerning justice and the enforcement of civil and syariah law.

“Personally, I feel the current law should be reviewed to ensure all parties involved receive fair treatment.

“In any action taken, parents should be involved, especially in cases concerning minors, rather than letting the matter be resolved without their participation,” Shukri told Bernama today.

He said social problems must be addressed at the source, rather than only responding after a case arises.

“Like the issue of drugs, the government spends heavily to tackle it, but cultivating values and faith should be emphasised from school onwards,” he added.

Shukri called for clearer and more transparent solutions to prevent injustice in cases involving moral offences and syariah criminal law in the country.

Recently, Yusoff proposed that both parties involved in underage consensual sex face punishment to ensure justice is served.

Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail reportedly said today that Yusoff’s statement reflects his personal view, stemming from concerns over the number of sexual offences in Kelantan.

- Bernama

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