IPOH: Politicians who deliver speeches at mosques or surau in defiance of a royal decree prohibiting such activities must be prepared to face the consequences, says Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad.
The Perak Mentri Besar said the Sultan of Perak, Sultan Nazrin Shah, had clearly decreed that politicians are not allowed to give speeches at mosques or surau.
“I personally adhere to the directive and have reminded all elected representatives, from both the government and opposition benches, to do the same.
“As the state executive councillor for Islamic affairs, I have repeatedly raised this matter, including in the state assembly.
“Everyone, including myself, must comply with the Sultan’s decree,” he told reporters after presenting mock cheques for student aid programmes at the Mentri Besar’s office here on Wednesday (Feb 25).
Saarani was responding to a question regarding Parit MP Muhammad Ismi Mat Taib from PAS, who recently delivered a talk at a surau.
Photos of the MP speaking at the venue have since gone viral on social media.
In 2019, Sultan Nazrin issued a stern warning against attempts by any political party to hold programmes at mosques and surau in the state.
Saarani said anyone who chooses to violate the Sultan’s decree must be ready to face whatever action follows.
Addressing concerns that enforcement might fall on mosque or surau committees rather than individual speakers, he said responsibility could lie with chairmen and committee members who allow such activities.
“At the same time, if action is deemed necessary against the individual involved, we would need to examine whether there are legal provisions to act against someone who deliberately violates the decree,” he said.
