Human rights advocate Siti Kasim has called on non-Muslim Malaysians to take a firm stance against the Mufti Bill (Federal Territories) 2024, which is set for its second and third readings in Parliament on October 16 and 17. She believes that the Bill, if passed, could not only infringe on the constitutional rights of Muslims but also erode the rights of non-Muslims in the long run.
In a three-part Facebook video, Siti Kasim stressed the importance of understanding the potential repercussions of the Bill, drawing a historical parallel with Lebanon, where an 80% Christian majority in the early 20th century saw their influence diminished due to political shifts. She warned that non-Muslims who believe the Mufti Bill will not affect them should reconsider, as the ripple effects could eventually impact all Malaysians.
"Look at Lebanon," Siti said. "It was once 80% Christian, but over time, as they remained silent and allowed certain changes to happen, the Christian population was marginalized. Today, Lebanon is very different. Don’t think Malaysia will be exempt from such a transformation. If this Bill passes, it could be difficult to reverse."
The Mufti Bill, which Siti views as unnecessary, seeks to elevate the powers of Muftis and the Syariah Court, potentially giving religious authorities more influence in areas that have traditionally been under the jurisdiction of civil law. She emphasized that the Bill could have long-term consequences, empowering the Syariah Court to such an extent that it would affect non-Muslims as well as Muslims.
Siti is not alone in her concerns. Former de facto law minister Datuk Zaid Ibrahim also voiced his opposition to the Bill, warning that it could lead to a situation where the entire federation is "ruled by Muftis," individuals who are not elected representatives of the people. Zaid expressed concern about how this shift in power could impact personal liberties and religious freedoms.
Citing an example, Zaid noted that under the current framework, he could visit a restaurant that does not carry a halal certification without issue. However, if the Bill were to pass, such personal decisions could become criminal offenses. "Do I have any personal liberties left?" Zaid questioned, reflecting on the potential future where non-religious matters might be regulated by religious authorities.
Both Siti and Zaid criticized the Bill for undermining the separation of religious and civil authorities in Malaysia. Siti questioned whether it is appropriate for fatwas, or Islamic rulings, to be made into binding laws, especially when those responsible for issuing them are not elected by the people. She also expressed confusion as to why Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s administration is pushing for this legislation, recalling a similar constitutional change introduced in 1987 that blurred the lines between Syariah and civil courts.
The Mufti Bill, according to Section 11, would make it mandatory for Muslims in the Federal Territories to adhere to fatwas, with these rulings being recognized by the courts. Siti questioned whether this enforcement would be limited to the Syariah Court or if it would extend to the civil courts as well, further complicating the legal landscape in Malaysia.
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