Speakers need credentials from Johor Islamic Religious Council to hold talks, says Ruler

JOHOR BARU: Only Johor Islamic Religious Council (MAINJ)-accredited speakers are allowed to hold religious talks in Johor, state Ruler Sultan Ibrahim Ibni Almarhum Sultan Iskandar decreed.

The Ruler said this is to avoid the spread of doctrines and deviation from the teachings of the Ahli Sunnah Wal Jammaah Islamic faith.

“Islamic religious speakers who wish to conduct talks in Johor or any Islam-related activities must receive credentials from MAINJ in line with Section 118(3) of the Administration of the Religion of Islam (Johor) 2003.

“This applies to activities held anywhere in Johor including mosques and surau,” Sultan Ibrahim said in a statement posted on his official Facebook page on Wednesday (March 8).

He said those found doing so without the right credentials could face actions under Section 119(1) of the Enactment and Section 11 of the Syariah Criminal Offences Enactment 1997, which calls for a maximum fine of RM5,000 or jail term of up to three years, or both.

“Any parties or event organisers that wish to conduct such activities must also do the same or face stern actions,” said the Ruler, who also urged all Muslims to obey the law to ensure there is no deviation from the Islamic faith.