PETALING JAYA: The appointment of the religious affairs minister should be based on their academic qualifications, says Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah.
The Sultan of Selangor, who is also the Malaysian National Council for Islamic Religious Affairs (MKI) chairman, said this could come on top of the current practice of appointing the post from among non-political figures.
"I also suggest that academic qualifications based on Islamic education degrees should be the main criteria in appointing a religious affairs minister.
"I also hope that the practice of appointing the religious affairs minister from non-political members currently being implemented can be continued to ensure that issues related to Islamic religious affairs are not politicised, and full attention can be given by him in addressing various issues involving Muslims," said the Sultan of Selangor in a posting on the Selangor Royal Office Facebook page on Thursday (Feb 15).
The statement was issued after the Sultan of Selangor chaired the 71st MKI meeting in Putrajaya also on Thursday.
Sultan Sharafuddin also called upon Muslims in the country to continue strengthening their commitment to unity and brotherhood (ukhwah), which has been the core of the country's progress.
"Indeed, strong brotherhood among the Muslim community can generate success and excellence for the prosperity and sovereignty of the entire country.
"Based on that intention, disputes and conflicts that arise among the community on any issue should be managed with orderliness, wisdom, and fairness to all parties," Sultan Sharafuddin said.
