Perak: Four khatibs, who are also imams at mosques in Perak, have been temporarily suspended from their duties by the Perak Islamic Religious Department (JAIPk) for allegedly delivering a Friday sermon that was not prepared by the department on January 31.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, JAIPk deputy director Zakaria Abd Razak stated that the four khatibs are imams serving in mosques located in Parit Buntar, Kuala Kangsar, and Teluk Intan. The suspension letters were issued by JAIPk on February 6, and they include the suspension of the khatibs' allowances.

Zakaria explained that the duration of the temporary suspension will be determined when the disciplinary committee convenes. This meeting is expected to take place in early Ramadan, where they will decide whether to lift the suspension or impose other disciplinary actions. He shared this information with reporters during the Chinese New Year celebration at Muhammadiah Mosque (Chinese Mosque).

In response to queries about the status of JAIPk's disciplinary committee meeting, Zakaria mentioned that the committee would address the situation involving a khatib who allegedly read a Friday sermon text prepared by the Penang Islamic Religious Affairs Department on January 31. One of the reasons provided by the khatib involved was a computer malfunction, which prevented access to JAIPk's prepared sermon for that week.

Based on complaints received, the sermons delivered by the khatibs included texts from the Malaysian Islamic Development Department (JAKIM), religious authorities from Kedah and Penang, and JAIPk's texts from 2023. Zakaria also noted that Sultan of Perak, Sultan Nazrin Shah, has been informed and has decreed that strict action be taken.

Previously, the police had transferred the investigation into the case of the unauthorised Friday prayer sermon delivery to JAIPk for further examination.