KUALA LUMPUR – Polygamy scams have long been an issue in Malaysia as many husbands refuse to follow the law on such marriages, counsellor Hushim Salleh was quoted as saying by Sinar Harian.
He said these men opt for the easier route by hiring certain parties to handle the marriage process instead of going through the standard operating procedure.
If a man wants a second wife, the SOP requires him to declare his income and job to the religious affairs office, and he needs to obtain a letter of agreement from his first spouse, said Hushim.
“Those who do not want to follow the SOP will fork out money to pay for a marriage here or in Thailand. This is because the majority of husbands want to keep their second marriage a secret.
“I also worry that it could lead to marriages between siblings, as their parents’ polygamous relationship is kept secret.”
He called for stricter enforcement by the relevant authorities, as in these cases, the men often provide false information to the courts.
Sinar Harian also reported that a polygamy syndicate is being run by “insiders” in the shariah judiciary.
Following this, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Islamic Affairs) Datuk Seri Zulkifli Mohamad Al-Bakri said the government will launch an investigation.
“The Malaysian Shariah Judiciary Department (JKSM) and state shariah courts will not compromise whatsoever with such unscrupulous activities involving its personnel.”
He said JKSM will cooperate with state shariah courts, state religious authorities, police and the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission on the issue.
Zulkifli’s deputy, Ahmad Marzuk Shaary, said such marriages may not be in accordance with the law, and can be considered illegitimate. – The Vibes, January 3, 2021
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