KLANG: Shah Alam member of Parliament Khalid Samad faces possible disqualification from his position after he was fined RM2,900 in default of three months’ imprisonment by the Syariah Court here today.
Syarie Judge Mohd Hairuddin Ab Rahim meted out the sentence after Khalid was found guilty last month for teaching Islam without credentials in 2011.
The offence was allegedly committed at a surau in Taman Seri Sementa, Jalan Taman Seri Semanta, Kapar between 10pm and 11.50pm on Aug 16, 2011.
Mohd Hairuddin, when handing the judgement, said the decision was made after the court took into consideration Khalid’s position as an MP, his health situation, and his contribution to the people.
The Parti Amanah Negara communication director was charged under Section 119(1) of the Selangor Islamic Law Administration Enactment 2003, carries a penalty of a maximum RM3,000 fine, or maximum two years' jail, or both, upon conviction.
However, according to Article 48 of the Federal Constitution, lawmakers can be disqualified from their position if convicted and fined more than RM2,000, or jailed a year or more.
Khalid, 59, when met after the proceedings, said he will appeal to reduce the fine at the Syariah High Court.
"For now, I will pay the fine, but… my lawyer will file the appeal tomorrow," he said.
Syarie Prosecution Officer Abdul Shukor Abdul Hamid prosecuted, while Khalid was represented by Dr Zulqarnain Lukman.