Klang, Malaysia: The Selangor PAS Youth criticised Umno Minister Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz for “politicking” at a Klang mosque by organising “Ibadah Korban” (animal sacrifice rituals) for Hari Raya Aidiladha on Monday.
Its leader, Mohamed Sukri Omar, was particularly offended by an Umno banner displayed at the event, which he said violated the Selangor ruler’s directive not to hold political activities or programmes in state mosques or surau.
“Selangor PAS Youth vehemently condemns the Kota Raja Umno division’s act of using a mosque for political means by holding the ‘korban’ event at the Masjid An Naim mosque in Jalan Kebun, Klang,” Sukri said in a statement on Wednesday.
“The political agenda of the event was clear by the display of an Umno banner at the venue. This clearly goes against the decree by the Selangor sultan banning political parties from politicking in places of worship,” he added.
As the Kota Raja Umno chief, Zafrul should have been aware of the ethics involved in keeping mosques away from politics, Sukri added.
“Do not hide behind holding sacrificial rites to slip your political agenda into mosques.”
‘Don’t let politics divide people’
Zafrul, Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry, posted on Facebook on Monday that a total of 47 cows were slaughtered during the event.
“I arrived (at the event) a bit late and managed to (participate in the) slaughter (of) two cows only,” he wrote.
The Selangor Islamic Religious Council (Mais) has imposed a ban on all political activities in mosques or surau in the state.
What Are The Legal Consequences?
Any act against the orders of the Ruler of Selangor or instructions by Mais may be prosecuted under section 12 (a) or (b) of the Syariah Criminal Offences (Selangor) Enactment 1995.
Furthermore, Sukri also urged all parties to do their politics maturely and peacefully.
“The mosque needs to be a place for the community to unite, regardless of party background, race, or social status. Don’t let narrow political culture continue dividing the people,” he said.
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