Minister of Communications and Unity Government spokesperson Fahmi Fadzil has clarified that the Mufti Bill (Federal Territories) 2024, set to be tabled for its second and third readings in the upcoming Parliament session, is not intended to extend the powers of the mufti. Instead, the bill aims to provide clearer and more structured guidelines regarding the jurisdiction and authority of muftis, preventing misunderstandings and disputes regarding their role.
Fahmi emphasized that the bill is designed to offer a more orderly framework that aligns with the country's constitution and existing legal systems, ensuring the mufti's actions are transparent and clearly defined. "This is not about expanding the mufti’s authority but ensuring that their jurisdiction is well-organized and understood by all," he stated during a public health event in Lembah Pantai, organized in collaboration with IMU Cares.
Addressing concerns from certain groups, Fahmi pointed out that the bill mirrors legislation that has been in place in Sabah for over two decades. “The majority of the clauses in this bill are nearly identical to the Sabah Fatwa Enactment, which was passed in 2004. Despite being in effect for 20 years, it hasn’t led to any changes in religious practices or the freedoms of non-Muslim communities,” he said, citing the continued celebration of cultural festivals like Pesta Kaamatan as evidence that the law has had no adverse effects on religious freedom.
The Mufti Bill (Federal Territories) 2024 seeks to define Ahli Sunnah Wal Jamaah as a specific theological stance, drawing from the teachings of Al-Asyairah and Al-Maturidiah. This move aims to provide a standardized understanding of Sunni Islam, which is followed by the majority of Muslims in Malaysia.
The bill has sparked controversy, particularly among 14 groups from Sarawak and Sabah, who argue that it threatens the secular foundation of Malaysia and violates the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63). These groups fear that the law might gradually lead to Malaysia becoming an Islamic state. However, Fahmi firmly rejected these claims, urging critics to look to the historical context of similar laws in Sabah.
“For those who are making such allegations, I strongly recommend they revisit Sabah’s legal history. Sabah enacted this legislation two decades ago, and it has not disrupted religious practices or caused any harm to the secular framework of the state,” he said. Fahmi expressed hope that the public would refrain from viewing the bill with suspicion and instead seek to understand its true purpose. He stressed that the bill is meant to ensure that the legal framework surrounding Islam, specifically for Muslims, is well-structured and respected, without impeding the rights of non-Muslims.
Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs), had earlier confirmed that the bill would be presented for its second and third readings during the Parliamentary session starting on October 14.
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