Kedah is second state to ban Zakir Naik from speaking publicly

ALOR SETAR: Kedah has become the second state, after Perlis, to ban controversial preacher Zakir Naik (pic) from speaking publicly.

Sinar Harian reported on Saturday (Aug 17) that Kedah Religious Affairs Committee chairman Datuk Dr Ismail Salleh had said that while Zakir was welcome within the state's borders, he may not involve himself in any public events in the state.

"We prioritise the harmony of the people now. Don't add oil to fire, lest the fire gets bigger.

"We will not put the unity we have at risk, " he said.

On Friday (Aug 16), Perlis police chief Senior Asst Comm Noor Mushar Mohd said Zakir and his family, who were supposed to speak at a religious event there this weekend, were ordered not to do so.

ACP Noor Mushar said they were advised to avoid attending the event altogether and action would be taken under the Peaceful Assembly Act 2012 if they gave speeches at that event.