Kuala Lumpur: The Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) has moved to standardise Friday sermon texts at the federal level to ensure that Islamic teachings delivered in mosques remain free from political overtones. Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na'im Mokhtar stated that this initiative aims to preserve the integrity of religious guidance in mosques, while clarifying that control over sermon texts and delivery at the state level remains under local jurisdiction.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr Mohd Na'im emphasized the importance of maintaining mosques as apolitical spaces, with their primary role being the delivery of authentic Islamic teachings. This move follows a directive issued by Perak Sultan, Sultan Nazrin Shah. Dr Mohd Na'im explained that JAKIM's initiative to standardise sermon texts at the federal level is a response to situations where khatibs (persons who deliver sermons during prayer) have refused to read texts approved by the Perak Islamic Religious Department (JAIPk), which had been vetted by the state Mufti Department.

Furthermore, Perak Mufti Datuk Seri Wan Zahidi Wan highlighted that refusing to read approved sermon texts is considered a breach of ethics. Recently, JAIPk temporarily suspended four khatibs-one each from Parit Buntar and Kuala Kangsar and two others from Teluk Intan-for allegedly delivering unapproved sermons.

In relation to another matter, Dr Mohd Na'im indicated that the Mufti (Federal Territories) Bill 2024 may not be tabled for its second reading in the current Dewan Rakyat session. However, it is expected to be reintroduced in the June session. He mentioned plans to use the available time to conduct briefings and discussions with relevant parties to clarify the objectives of the bill, which was first presented for its first reading in July. The bill aims to address issues related to the mufti's role and the determination of Islamic law and doctrine.