Despite efforts to curb underage marriages, Malaysia continues to see a significant number of such cases, with Kelantan emerging as the state with the highest recorded incidents. Recent data from the Religious Affairs Ministry has shed light on this concerning issue, revealing that from 2022 to 2024, a total of 881 underage marriages took place across the country.
Kelantan Tops the List with 193 Cases
In a written response to Bukit Bendera MP Syerleena Abdul Rashid in the Dewan Rakyat, Minister of Religious Affairs Na’im Mokhtar disclosed that 518 teenage girls were among those married under the legal age limit. Kelantan recorded the highest number with 193 cases, accounting for 21.9% of the total.
Other states also reported notable figures, including Selangor (133), Kedah (126), Terengganu (115), and Johor (73). Sabah, Pahang, Perlis, Negeri Sembilan, and the Federal Territories reported between 27 to 63 cases, while Melaka and Penang had the lowest numbers, with 19 and 4 cases, respectively.
Regulations and Oversight on Underage Marriages
Na’im emphasized that underage marriages are strictly regulated, requiring approval from the Syariah Court. The Malaysian Syariah Judiciary Department (JKSM) has implemented a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to ensure that such marriages are conducted lawfully and only when deemed appropriate.
“This SOP places significant emphasis on and prioritises the welfare of children who wish to marry, requiring the Syariah Court to conduct a thorough and comprehensive evaluation based on the SOP before granting permission for a marriage below the minimum age.” the minister stated.
Legal Framework and Government Initiatives
According to Section 8 of the Islamic Family Law Act (Federal Territories) 1984, the minimum legal marriage age is set at 18 for males and 16 for females. However, exceptions can be made with Syariah Court approval.
To address the underlying causes of underage marriages, the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM), in collaboration with the Ministry of Women, Family, and Community Development (KPWKM), has introduced a National Strategic Plan. Additionally, JAKIM, the Chief Registrar of the State Syariah Judiciary Department (KPJKSN), and the State Syariah Court (MSN) have developed a structured approach for managing these cases, which has been implemented in Selangor and the Federal Territories.
While these measures aim to regulate underage marriages and protect minors, the high number of cases remains a pressing issue, raising concerns about child welfare, education, and future opportunities for young brides and grooms.
Information Source: WeirdKaya/ BeritaHarian
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