SHAH ALAM, June 18 — Sultan of Selangor, Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, has consented for more mosques in Selangor to hold Friday and daily congregational prayers starting tomorrow, while congregation numbers at previously reopened mosques have been increased.
In a statement today, private secretary to the Selangor Ruler, Datuk Mohamad Munir Bani, said all mosques located in the townships that have been declared green zones by the Selangor Health Department are now allowed to open and can welcome 40 people for each congregational prayer.
“His Royal Highness has consented that all the existing 39 mosques previously reopened (to the public) and all mosques in ‘mukim’ (townships) categorised as green zones are to be opened for Friday and selected daily congregational prayers starting June 19,” the statement read.
“The decision was made after taking into consideration the current Covid-19 epidemic data and status in the state.”
However, congregational prayers at suraus, except those performed by the three designated surau officials, is still not allowed.
Mohamad Munir said the Selangor Ruler has also consented to increase the congregation numbers previously set for the first 39 mosques that reopened.
The Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Mosque, or better known as the State Mosque, is now allowed to welcome 250 people for selected daily and Friday prayers. The other 38 mosques can now receive 150 attendees.
Mohamad Munir said all members of the congregation must abide by the standard operating procedures set by the Selangor Islamic Religious Department (Jais). They are as follows:
- Take their ablution (wudhu) at home
- Bring their own prayer mat (sejadah)
- Wear a face mask inside the mosque
- Practise social distancing at all times
Those who are sick are prohibited from performing prayers at mosques and the congregation is reminded to also adhere to the guidelines set by the National Security Council and the Health Ministry.
Meanwhile, Mohamad Munir said the Selangor Ruler has also decreed that the sacrificial ritual (ibadah korban) for Hari Raya Aidiladha is only allowed within the compounds of the selected 39 mosques and the mosques located inside the green zones.
“No sacrificial ritual is allowed at suraus and Muslims are encouraged to participate in this ritual only at the designated mosques.”
He added that His Royal Highness will continue to monitor the Covid-19 situation and will make decisions accordingly, in time.
