Maximum of 10 people and time limit for ‘akad nikah’

PETALING JAYA: Starting today, only a maximum of 10 people can be present at akad nikah (solemnisation) ceremonies in Selangor, which can only take 20 minutes at most from start to finish.

There will also be no shaking hands between the groom and the wali (guardian of the bride) or with the marriage registrar. Receptions are also off-limits during this period. These were among the new regulations outlined by the Selangor Islamic Religious Department (Jais) effective from March 18 to April 17 to curb the spread of Covid-19.

Akad nikah ceremonies must also be held at private premises and not at public places such as mosques, surau or any other place of that nature.

“It can only be attended by: One (1) marriage registrar/assistant marriage registrar, groom, bride, one (1) wali, two (2) witnesses, two (2) representatives from the groom’s side and two (2) representatives from the bride’s side.

“The akad nikah ceremony must not exceed 20 minutes, including the marriage sermon.

“It will go on with no shaking hands between the groom and the wali or with the marriage registrar or assistant marriage registrar, ” said Jais in a statement yesterday.

It said that the akad nikah ceremony must also be cancelled if any parties were suspected of Covid-19 or had tested positive for the virus.

Measures recommended by the Health Ministry including usage of hand sanitisers, face masks and practicing social distancing must be adhered to by all individuals, said Jais.

Malaysia has imposed movement control order starting today until March 31 in a bid to control the Covid-19 pandemic.