SIK: The public should not be misled by certain quarters who are creating the wrong perception about the proposed amendment to the Shariah Courts (Criminal Jurisdiction) Act 1965 (Act 355).
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Seri Jamil Khir Baharom said the negative perception, which is being spread through social media, is aimed at scaring non-Muslims and dividing the Muslim community.
“That is why I am sharing the same stage with Pas secretary-general Datuk Takiyuddin Hassan today, to explain the truth and misperceptions on the amendment,” Jamil said in his speech during a forum titled "RUUA355: Reality and Perception" at Al Hana Hall here today.
The forum, attended by some 1,000 people, was organised by the Maktab Mahmud alumni group, Ex-Maahadian.
Jamil reiterated that the amendment is meant to strengthen the Shariah law for Muslims and brushed aside claims that it is politically-motivated.
He also said that the ‘RUU 355’ gathering at Padang Merbok, Kuala Lumpur, recently was meant to demonstrate public support for the amendment.
“We must realise that whether we are Umno or Pas, we will go to Shariah Court to settle any issue pertaining to religion, including marriage,” he said.
Takiyuddin, in his speech, said the amendment to Act 355 will function as a guideline for state religious departments and strengthen Shariah law in each state.
“It is up to the states whether they want to follow the new amendment, or to stick to their current law. For example, Penang does not have to follow the amendment if it wishes not to do so,” he said.
He also reiterated that although the amendment is a private member’s bill tabled by Pas president and Marang MP Datuk Seri Abdul Hadi Awang, the government will take over the handling of the bill once it has passed the voting stage in Parliament.