Penang Mufti Urges Resolute, Wise Action Against Religious Insults

KUALA LUMPUR, March 2 (Bernama) -- Any form of insult against the Quran must be dealt with resolutely and wisely through legal channels to maintain harmony, said Penang Mufti, Associate Professor Datuk Dr Mohd Sukki Othman.

He said the Quran, as the primary guide for Muslims, must be respected, and any act that insults or desecrates it not only offends religious sensitivities but also carries serious consequences.

“In this country, alongside Islamic law, the Penal Code also provides penalties for acts that may provoke religious tension or disturb public order,” he said while appearing as a guest on Bernama Radio’s morning programme Sensitiviti Agama: Perspektif Hukum dalam Keharmonian Sosial  (Religious Sensitivity: Legal Perspectives in Social Harmony) today.

Mohd Sukki emphasised that responses to insults should avoid vigilante actions or spreading hatred, as these contradict both Islamic teachings and national law.

He said issues involving sacred texts go beyond the physical, affecting faith, religious dignity, and the wider Muslim community.

According to Mohd Sukki, in a multi-religious country like Malaysia, mutual respect across religions is key to maintaining national stability and unity.

“Any provocative actions that could fuel misunderstanding or tension must be handled responsibly and wisely,” he said, highlighting the need for continuous education in schools and universities to nurture respect for religion and proper treatment of sacred texts.

He added that interfaith dialogue must be strengthened to build understanding and prevent misunderstandings that could harm social harmony, urging religious leaders, the media, and the public to help calm tensions and avoid actions that could worsen the situation.

-- BERNAMA