Performing non-Islamic religious ritual: 21-year-old man to be charged tomorrow

A YOUNG Muslim man who sparked controversy after performing religious rituals belonging to another faith is set to be charged in court tomorrow.

The Selangor Islamic Religious Department (JAIS) stated that the 21-year-old man will be charged at the Gombak Barat Syariah Lower Court in Kuang.

"The suspect will be charged at approximately 10 am tomorrow under Section 4 (Improper Worship) of the Syariah Criminal Offences (Selangor) Enactment 1995," the department said today.

It was earlier reported that JAIS had confirmed the arrest of a Muslim man suspected of performing religious rituals of another faith in Kuala Lumpur on October 13.

JAIS Director, Datuk Mohd Shahzihan Ahmad, stated that the 21-year-old individual was arrested alongside his 52-year-old mother.

Mohd Shahzihan reportedly stated that the department views the matter seriously and will ensure that all actions taken are based on its legal jurisdiction, the law, and the facts of the case.

Reports stated that JAIS was conducting an investigation into an individual suspected of violating Syariah law by participating in the religious rituals of another faith during the Thaipusam festival at Batu Caves, Selangor.

The investigation into the case was initiated under Sections 4 and 10 of the Syariah Criminal Offences (Selangor) Enactment 1995. – November 3, 2026