KUALA LUMPUR – The Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) has refuted claims that the Federal Territories Mufti Bill, set to be tabled in Parliament, was hastily drafted and influenced by certain parties.
Minister Datuk Mohd Na’im Mokhtar stated that the bill underwent a rigorous and extensive drafting process to ensure it is comprehensive, well-structured, and aligned with the Federal Constitution and existing laws.
He urged all parties to be cautious of any unsubstantiated statements, as they could spark controversy.
“The drafting of this Mufti Bill is a government initiative aimed at enhancing and empowering the mufti institution in the Federal Territories,” he said.
“Through this empowerment, the field of fatwa and Islamic law development will be managed in an organised, transparent, and authoritative manner, contributing to improved Islamic administrative governance in Malaysia.”
The Mufti Bill (Federal Territories) 2024 will be presented for its second and third readings in this parliamentary session.
Yesterday, the Perlis Mufti suggested that the government’s official media platform provide him with an open dialogue with Na’im to discuss the bill.
“The religious affairs minister should be promoting inclusivity and moderation, in line with the Madani concept,” he said.
“Unfortunately, he seems to be steering the country towards a path of labelling others as infidels and misguided, similar to what Ibn Tumart did.”
Several parties have opposed the tabling of the bill, arguing that it grants excessive power to an individual who is not elected but appointed by a minister, and tightly controls how Muslims practice their faith.
The Mufti Bill is said to be authoritarian and grants absolute power to the mufti. – October 15, 2024
