IPOH: Religious officers must be prudent while carrying out their duties amongst the public, said the Sultan of Perak Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah.
He said officers entrusted with power must emulate the teachings of Islam, which emphasises education, rather than punitive measures.
"They (the religious officers) are on the frontline and exposed to public judgement.
"Thus, the beauty of Islam must be reflected while they are carrying out their duties.
"The modus operandi must be based on a preventive approach rather than a punitive one," he said after officiating the launch of the new state Islamic Council and Malay's Customs (MAIPK) logo and five-year strategic plan here today.
Also present were Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir, Perak mufti Tan Sri Harussani Zakaria and state secretary Datuk Seri Abdul Puhat Mat Nayan.
Sultan Nazrin also said religious officers must respect the law and implement it fairly at all times.
"The act of degrading and belittling wrongdoers, which could cause a person to feel insulted, mistreated and humiliated, should not be done by religious officers," he said.
Sultan Nazrin said the good reputation and image of a religious council is a crucial component in ensuring sustainable development.
"We must preserve the positive reputation of the religious council to build trust among Muslims and non-Muslims in this country," he said.