Get the paperwork done right for a proper marriage

GEORGE TOWN: Muslim couples who get hitched overseas must get their marriage confirmed at the nearest Syariah Court upon their return home.

Failure to do so could result in legal consequences, said Malaysian Syariah Lawyers Association president Musa Awang.

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He said those involved in unauthorised marriages or unauthorised polygamy could face legal action.

Offenders can be penalised with a fine of RM1,000 or imprisonment for up to six months for each offence under Sections 12 (2) and 40 (2) of the State Islamic Family Law Enactment.

Musa said it is crucial for couples, especially those married in southern Thailand, to promptly report to the Islamic religious department and confirm the status of their marriage.

In some instances, these marriages might not be valid according to Malaysia’s syariah laws, he added, emphasising the importance of official verification.

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Penang Deputy Chief Minister I Datuk Dr Mohamad Abdul Hamid said marriage solemnisation in southern Thailand might not be valid if the ceremony is conducted in places not recognised by Thai Islamic religious authorities.

He said this will complicate the process of registering the birth of the couple’s children in Malaysia and create problems for the children in attending school and other affairs in the future.

“I urge couples to follow the established procedures for marriage by the religious department, as the process in Malaysia and specifically in Penang is straightforward,” he added.

The state religious council has appointed registrars in every district to assist with any issues including for those interested in polygamy, in which permission must be sought from the Syariah Court.

“Couples from Penang who have married in southern Thailand should confirm their marriage or polygamy at the Syariah Court and register it at the nearest district religious offices in Penang to ensure the marriage is valid under syariah law,” Mohamad said.

He added that this confirmation will help facilitate matters related to children, inheritance, and dealings with other agencies.