Kuala Lumpur: Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar has called on all parties to refrain from hastily expressing personal views on the ruling regarding performing the hajj during election periods without consulting relevant authorities, including state muftis. He emphasized the need for thorough research and a deep understanding when issuing religious edicts or rulings, which require a high level of scholarly discipline.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Mohd Na’im highlighted the importance of maintaining social order and avoiding confusion that could disrupt harmony, particularly when it involves worship, a fundamental aspect of Islam, as well as the democratic process. He urged parties to remain calm and allow space for muftis and authoritative institutions to provide guidance based on Islamic principles and the current context. This statement comes in response to remarks by PAS president Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang, who suggested prioritizing political victory over performing the umrah or hajj pilgrimage during a campaign speech.

The Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) announced its collaboration with the Federal Territories Mufti Department and other relevant authorities to review the remarks. JAKIM also advised caution when making statements on religious matters to prevent community confusion. Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Zulkifli Hasan reminded that those chosen as dhuyufurrahman (guests of Allah) must accept the call to perform hajj sincerely, stressing that hajj and umrah should not be overshadowed by political interests.

PKR’s Department of Religious Understanding and Strengthening director Amidi Abdul Manan criticized Abdul Hadi’s statements as out of context, causing confusion. He argued that comparing the Prophet Muhammad’s actions to prioritizing political victory over religious duties is misleading. Similarly, Institute of Islamic Understanding Malaysia (IKIM) director-general Associate Professor Datuk Dr Mohamed Azam Mohamed Adil warned that political leaders’ statements prioritizing political interests over hajj and umrah risk being misinterpreted and leading to misunderstandings among Muslims.

Highlighting the need for balance, Mohamed Azam emphasized that political leaders should model a balanced approach between worldly responsibilities and spiritual obligations. He noted that postponing hajj for valid reasons like health or safety is permissible under Islamic law, but deferring it for elections is not. Senator Datuk Seri Dr Mujahid Yusof Rawa criticized the political leader’s statements as baseless, noting that hajj, one of Islam’s five pillars, should be performed at the right time and within one’s means, unlike the uncertain timing of political events.

IKIM and other religious bodies urge leaders to promote Islam’s noble values, prioritize worship, and fulfill political responsibilities with integrity. They also encourage the public to deepen their religious knowledge to better distinguish between worldly duties and spiritual priorities.