Kedah: The Raja Muda of Kedah, Tengku Sarafudin Badlishah Sultan Sallehuddin, has called for an end to allegations and defamatory claims against the state's Islamic religious authorities following the rejection of a ceramah application at a mosque.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Tengku Sarafudin Badlishah, who is also the Kedah State Islamic Religious Council (MAIK) president, expressed concern over ceramah containing political elements being held in mosques and suraus. He noted that a letter issued by the Kedah State Islamic Religious Affairs Department (JHEAIK) regarding the rejected ceramah recently went viral on social media. The rejection, he stated, was made in accordance with an existing circular, and appropriate action was taken.

His Royal Highness emphasized that all religious activities in mosques and surau must receive approval and comply with the regulations set by the state religious authorities. He insisted that compliance with these regulations is mandatory for all individuals and parties, regardless of their position or background.

Tengku Sarafudin Badlishah reiterated that the ruling is applied fairly and consistently to preserve the dignity of mosques and uphold the authority of Islamic religious institutions in Kedah. He also highlighted the importance of maintaining a clear separation between places of worship and politics to safeguard community harmony and prevent the exploitation of Islam for specific interests.

He assured that MAIK would continue to fulfill its duties with wisdom and prudence, in line with Islamic law, legislation, and the state constitution, to ensure the stability, harmony, and unity of the ummah in the state. Additionally, Tengku Sarafudin Badlishah expressed hope that such incidents would not recur and mentioned that action would be taken if they do.