Statements From 40 Individuals Recorded In Connection With Marriage Motivation Program - MAIS

SHAH ALAM, Aug 29 (Bernama) -- Forty individuals have had their statements recorded to assist in the investigation of a marriage motivation program held in September of last year.

Chairman of the Selangor Islamic Religious Council (MAIS), Datuk Salehuddin Saidin, said that among the individuals involved are professionals, such as lawyers and doctors, in addition to the program organisers.

He said recording their statements is important to complete the investigation paper, especially to determine if a false doctrine exists.

"For now, the investigation is still ongoing, and one day the Selangor State Syariah Prosecution Department will decide whether or not there are elements of an offence under the Syariah Criminal Enactment (State of Selangor) 1995," he said, commenting on the progress of the investigation at a media conference here today.

Salehuddin also denied claims that the Selangor Islamic Religious Departments (JAIS) are delaying the investigation.

Meanwhile, Salehuddin said that MAIS, through its Al-Riqab Rehabilitation Division, has allocated RM18.4 million this year to help socially and morally afflicted groups. He noted that 2,160 "asnaf riqab" (those in need of rehabilitation) were assisted as of June.

In addition, he said MAIS is considering following in the footsteps of Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA) by appointing wardens from among retired soldiers or police officers in schools under its administration.

He said the proposal is one of the efforts to curb the issue of bullying in schools from taking root.

Salehuddin said that MAIS, in collaboration with JAIS, will organise a Grand "Solat Hajat" program at mosques and surau across the state on September 5 after Friday prayers. The prayer is to seek divine assistance to protect Selangor from negative influences, wrongdoing, and challenges that threaten the state's harmony and stability.

He also called on Muslims, especially in Selangor, to appreciate the true meaning of independence in conjunction with the nation's 68th National Day on August 31.

"In conjunction with National Day, Muslims need to instill a sense of identity as Malaysian citizens, protect their faith, and stay away from all forms of social ills that can harm their future, especially the younger generation," he said.

-- BERNAMA