IPOH: The state is encouraging mosques and suraus to use local imams to lead Tarawih prayers during Ramadan, says Perak Islamic Religious and Malay Customs Council president Tan Sri Mohd Annuar Zaini.
Mohd Annuar stated that imams with credentials granted by the Sultan of Perak are permitted to do so and would be given priority, especially students from local tahfiz institutions.
"Imams from outside the state would need to obtain permission to lead prayers," he said in a press conference after the Announcement Ceremony of Zakat Fitrah Rates for the Year 1446/2025 at Kompleks Islam Darul Ridzuan here on Thursday (Feb 27).
"The Perak Islamic Religious Department director will present this matter to the Sultan for consideration," he said.
"We understand that foreign imams, like those from Saudi Arabia, attract more worshippers.
"In such cases, they must follow the proper procedures, and the Sultan will grant approval accordingly," he added.
Meanwhile, Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad said that sermons should not be political in nature.
"The prohibition of political activities in mosques and suraus is not limited to Ramadan; it is enforced at all times according to the decree of the Sultan.
"All this time, no one has stopped those who deliver sermons unrelated to politics correctly," he added.
During the ceremony, it was announced that the zakat fitrah rates for the state of Perak this year would be increased to RM10, RM16 and RM27 per individual.
The minimum amount to be paid by those obligated to pay zakat fitrah is RM10 for individuals who consume local rice, local super special rice, and super imported white rice. RM16 is for those who consume brown rice, fragrant rice, and similar types, while RM27 is for users of basmati rice and glutinous rice or its equivalent.
