Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has accused the opposition of attempting to exploit the recent Federal Court decision to strike down 16 shariah enactment provisions, creating division in society. The ruling, which invalidated certain provisions in the Kelantan Syariah Criminal Code (I) Enactment 2019, was deemed unconstitutional by Chief Justice Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat, who stated that the Kelantan state assembly had overstepped its authority by passing provisions already covered under federal law.
Anwar highlighted that the opposition had not raised objections when the case was initially filed. He expressed disappointment that the government is now being criticized and attacked following the ruling.
"This issue is being used to divide us, but we want to find a solution," Anwar stated during an event at Taman Tasik Titiwangsa.
Perikatan Nasional chairman Muhyiddin Yassin also expressed concern over the Federal Court's decision, claiming it will significantly impact the position and scope of shariah law in Malaysia. Following the ruling, PAS secretary-general Takiyuddin Hassan warned that the decision could threaten shariah laws in other states, labeling it a "Black Friday."
PAS president Abdul Hadi Awang, without directly naming anyone, criticized certain judges, insinuating that their intellect was "influenced" by Malaysia's former colonizers.
Anwar encouraged those dissatisfied with the ruling to provide suggestions to a special committee chaired by former chief justice Zaki Azmi. The committee is tasked with addressing issues arising from the Federal Court decision and strengthening the shariah courts. Anwar emphasized the importance of engaging with states, religious leaders, and academics before presenting suggestions to the national council for Islamic affairs.
Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah of Selangor, who chairs the National Council for Islamic Affairs, reiterated the need to respect the Federal Court's decision and uphold the Federal Constitution as the supreme law of the land. He confirmed that the special committee, established in August last year to review issues related to the competency of state legislative assemblies to enact shariah laws, is now examining potential implications of the Federal Court's ruling.
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