SHAH ALAM, July 2 — The Selangor government has reminded those with teaching credentials issued by the Selangor Islamic Religious Council (Mais) not to misuse them for personal or political gain.
State executive councillor for Islam and innovation Dr Fahmi Ngah said this in response to complaints about credential holders who hold positions in political parties and do not display good moral character.
He said other complaints involved actions that incite hatred or insults towards the federal or state governments, as well as raising issues that could fuel prejudice and lead to racial discord.
“Regulation 14(1) of the Tauliah for Islamic Teaching (State of Selangor) Regulations 2024 has clearly set the qualification criteria for those holding credentials.
“Among the conditions are being a Muslim who professes the Ahli Sunnah Wal Jamaah faith, residing in Selangor, not holding any position in a political party, and not being a member of the Senate, Dewan Rakyat or State Legislative Assembly,” he said in a statement today.
Fahmi said adherence to these conditions is crucial to prevent mosques from being used as venues for political propaganda and disunity, in line with the decree of Sultan of Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah Alhaj, during the opening of the First Meeting of the Sixth Term of the Selangor State Legislative Assembly in 2023.
He said the state government, through the Mais Credentials Committee, will suspend or revoke one’s teaching credentials if need be, after investigations.
“I would like to reiterate that religious preachers intending to teach or preach in mosques, surau or any location in Selangor must uphold good morals and steer clear of partisan politics.
“Those who are not ready to commit are advised not to apply for teaching credentials in this state. A Mais credential is a responsibility, not a privilege to be misused,” he said.
Fahmi also urged the public to lodge complaints with the Selangor Islamic Religious Department via its hotline at 1800-882-424 if they encounter preachers who violate the conditions of their teaching credentials.
— Bernama
