KUALA LUMPUR: Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) Senator Datuk Dr Mohd Na'im Mokhtar has dismissed the suggestion of including non-Muslim experts in Special Committees, describing it as unfounded.
He emphasised that the Special Committee to Study the Competence of the State Legislative Assembly in Enacting Islamic Laws was established to scrutinise issues related to the competence of the State Legislative Assembly and the jurisdiction of Sharia courts, in accordance with the Federal Constitution.
"All appointed members possess specialised knowledge in the Federal Constitution, civil law, and Sharia law, qualifying them to conduct thorough studies, offer valuable insights, and provide constructive input.
"Their aim is to ensure the pursuit of effective and harmonious solutions for addressing all arising issues in this matter, ultimately upholding and fortifying Sharia legislation and the Sharia justice system in our country.
"The current members of the Special Committee are well-equipped to fulfill their responsibilities, considering their individual areas of expertise," he said in statement today.
This response comes in the wake of a proposal by Beruas MP to enlist experts from non-Muslim communities to assist the Special Committee in examining the competence of the State Legislative Assembly in enacting Islamic laws, a committee established earlier this month.
Koo Ham was quoted as saying that this step is to consider the views of non-Muslims before any changes to the law are made.
Na'im further stressed that in matters of administrative policies concerning Islamic affairs, including legal and Sharia judicial policy issues involving the Muslim community, reference will always be made to the National Council for Islamic Religious Affairs Malaysia (MKI) and state religious authorities.
The MKI is chaired by Sultan of Selangor, Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah.
He also advised the public to refrain from making any statements that could provoke public distress.
"It is essential for everyone to express complete confidence and allow the Special Committee ample space to fulfill its role with utmost professionalism and effectiveness."