The Home Ministry maintains a vigilant watch over public responses following the Federal Court's decision to invalidate 16 offenses outlined in the Kelantan Shariah Criminal Code Enactment (1) 2019. Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail emphasized the ministry's commitment to monitoring any elements that may incite public disorder, reiterating that excessive reactions and complaints will be promptly investigated by the police, particularly through the Special 3R Force dedicated to addressing issues related to insults against royalty, religion, and race. Investigations will be expedited, with completed papers submitted to the Attorney-General’s Chambers within seven days.
Saifuddin clarified that the monitoring efforts extend beyond the specific case at hand, emphasizing the broader commitment to maintaining public order. The recent Federal Court ruling, delivered with a majority decision of 8-1, deemed the 16 offenses under the Kelantan Shariah Criminal Code Enactment (1) 2019 null and void, citing the lack of authority for the Kelantan State Legislative Assembly to enact provisions covered by existing Federal laws.
The minister underscored that the Federal Court's decision does not challenge Islam or undermine the Shariah Court's role. Additionally, he disclosed that discussions were held regarding Section 4 of the Prevention of Crime Act (POCA) 1959, following the Federal Court's ruling in April 2022, which deemed the entire section unconstitutional. Saifuddin mentioned that engagement sessions involving Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said, Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo, and activists took place to address concerns surrounding the implementation and enforcement of the section.
Saifuddin highlighted the ongoing monitoring of various aspects related to the court's decision on Section 4 of POCA 1959, emphasizing the need to assess its impact on law enforcement and police operations. He affirmed that all gathered data will be thoroughly examined to inform future actions. The ministry remains committed to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that legal processes are adhered to in a manner that safeguards public interests and rights.
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