KLANG: Selangor Ruler Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah has stated that politicians must prioritize national unity and harmony instead of issuing fatwas (religious edicts) as they please. The Sultan emphasized that political leaders propagating racial polarization and inciting people would cause the country to regress.
Sultan Sharafuddin reminded politicians to be aware of their roles and not issue religious edicts, as doing so would be an irresponsible act. He also urged all Malaysians, especially those in positions of political power, to always uphold national unity and harmony.
The Sultan, who also chairs the National Council of Islamic Religious Affairs (MKI), stated that fatwas can only be issued by state fatwa committees or muftis with the approval of the respective state ruler. Additionally, the National Muzakarah Committee, under the MKI, is responsible for issuing legal opinions related to fatwas after discussions with muftis from every state and the approval of the Council of Rulers.
Sultan Sharafuddin urged the police to take proactive action against individuals who raise sensitive issues concerning religion, race, and the Malay Rulers, in order to deter others from doing the same. He reminded politicians that national unity is the foundation for the country’s success.
The Sultan warned that falling for the instigation of political leaders can lead to suspicion, disagreement, discord, and division. Extreme polarization can also result in radicalism and extremism, posing a threat to national security. Leaders and politicians should focus on fostering national unity among all races.
Sultan Sharafuddin emphasized that his reminder does not indicate support for any particular group or political party. He urged politicians not to use religion as a tool to gain support, as this will only victimize the people in the political fight.
Recently, several politicians have issued fatwas on how people should vote, claiming that voting choices can determine one’s place in heaven or hell. Sultan Sharafuddin stated that political leaders should propose economic development programs for the benefit of all and work towards eliminating divisions among Malaysia’s diverse population.
The Sultan highlighted the importance of teaching tolerance and understanding of different cultures and religions to the younger generation. He also reminded everyone of the social contract that safeguards the rights of all Malaysians.
Sultan Sharafuddin stressed that while the Malay Rulers and the Rulers Council protect the rights of Malays and Islam, they are also responsible for ensuring the rights and safety of Malaysians from other races.
Regarding fatwas, the Sultan stated that they are not based solely on the individual opinion of one mufti. Instead, they are issued based on the collective consensus of the MKI’s National Muzakarah Committee and the state fatwa committees, which consist of religious experts. This ensures the accuracy of fatwas and prevents the dangerous trend of political leaders issuing them.
Sultan Sharafuddin urged political leaders to immediately stop issuing fatwas irresponsibly, as allowing them to do so would only lead to strife, division, and violence in society. He expressed his unwillingness to see the people divided by the actions of irresponsible political leaders.
The Sultan also expressed concern that issues related to race and religion are often exploited to gain support and votes.
Credit: The Star : News Feed
