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KUALA LUMPUR – The Federal Territories Islamic Religious Department (Jawi) today announced several standard operating procedure (SOP) relaxation guidelines for mosques and surau effective tomorrow.
In a statement today, its director Datuk Mohd Ajib Ismail said the Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah has consented to the new guidelines in line with the government’s announcement on the relaxation of SOPs for mosques and surau.
He said, following the move, the requirements to scan MySejahtera QR codes to enter mosques and surau, to use personal prayer mats and to maintain physical distancing between worshippers have been lifted.
In addition, everyone regardless of their vaccination status, except those in high-risk groups or those under home surveillance orders, are allowed to enter mosques and surau, Ajib said.
However, he said the wearing of face masks remains compulsory in mosques and surau but not mandatory in open areas or the exteriors of mosques and surau.
Feasts at mosques and surau, irrespective of the manner in which the food is prepared, Hari Raya visits and house-to-house “takbir” activities organised by mosques and surau are also allowed.
The congregants, he said, were also allowed to shake hands but must not touch their faces and ensure they wash their hands after doing so.
“It is hoped that with the relaxation of the SOPs more Muslims will attend to enliven the mosques and surau in their respective areas and maintain the momentum of worship from Ramadan to Syawal,” he added. – Bernama, May 1, 2022