KUALA TERENGGANU: SHOPPING premises in the state have been directed to cease operation for two hours every Friday from Jan 2.
The decision was made in
the state executive councillor meeting last week but was announced at the State Assembly yesterday.
Menteri Besar Datuk Ahmad Razif Abdul Rahman said local authorities would have to amend the by-laws and, when ready by the end of the month, they would
be empowered to take action against owners of premises
who did not adhere to the new ruling.
“Local authorities will station their women officers on these premises and issue summonses, as well as order the owners to close up during the stipulated period between 12.30pm and 2.30pm.”
He was replying to a question from Ridzwan Hashim (Pas-Teluk Pasu) who wanted to know if the state government would follow in the step of the Kelantan government, which acted against Muslims who did not perform Friday prayers.
Razif said the local authorities would also discuss with the state Religious Affairs Department about the scope of action to be taken against those caught loitering in shopping premises during the period.
“We want to preserve the sanctity of Islam and we want Muslims to respect their religion.
“The youth, especially, need to understand
that this action is for their own good.”