MELAKA: Eight men have been arrested by the Melaka Islamic Religious Department (JAIM) for not fasting and eating in public during inspections at food outlets in the state.
State Education, Higher Education and Religious Affairs Committee chairman Datuk Rahmad Mariman said the common reason given by them is "not feeling well” and "cannot fast”.
"They were arrested under Section 49 of the Melaka Syariah Offences Enactment 1991 on operations conducted since the beginning of Ramadan last week.
"Until the 7th day of Ramadan, JAIM has conducted 11 operations at 127 eatery premises and will continue enforcement against those who do not respect the month of Ramadan," he told reporters after leading an operation in Peringgit and Bukit Rambai here.
Also present were JAIM director Datuk Md Azhan Samat and its enforcement chief, Akmal Nadzim Abdullah.
According to Rahmad, the offence for not fasting cannot be compounded and those caught will be brought to court to be charged.
Those found guilty face a fine of not more than RM1,000 or jailed for up to six months upon conviction, he said. - Bernama
