Ngeh's statement on appointment of non-Muslim was an oversight, says Loke

PETALING JAYA: The statement by Beruas MP Datuk Ngeh Koo Ham to have a non-Muslim legal expert to be part of the special committee studying the functions of the Syariah Court was an oversight, says Anthony Loke.

Loke said the National Islamic Council (MKI) chaired by the Sultan of Selangor formed the special committee to study the proposal to strengthen Syariah Court's role.

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"It must be stressed that the establishment of the special committee was not decided by the Cabinet but by MKI, to whom they report directly," said the DAP secretary-general in a statement on Friday (Dec 29).

"I am aware that Ngeh's statement will create a polemic that DAP was interfering in Islamic affairs.

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"This is not at all true as DAP respects the wisdom of Sultan Selangor in making any decision on the affairs of MKI,” he said.

Loke said non-Muslims should not be concerned about the issue as any amendment involving their rights had to be fine-tuned and decided by the Cabinet and the process had to be carried out in Parliament.

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"The DAP is committed to the principle of mutual respect and harmony among races and religion, which is our responsibility.

"Let's end 2023 with a harmonious spirit and contribute to the progress and wellbeing of 2024," he added.