Physical distancing during prayers not without reason: Idris

BAGAN SERAI – The decision to enforce the practice of physical distancing during congregational prayers was not made without reason, but the move was instead taken after taking into account the views of the state religious authorities, the Health Ministry and scholars amid the Covid-19 pandemic.

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Idris Ahmad said while the intention has always been to close the gap between people during congregational prayers, it is important to abide by and respect the decisions of the state religious authorities due to the country’s current Covid-19 situation.

"Even in Saudi Arabia, the people have to maintain a distance for the rows (saf) arrangement, and this must be for a certain reason.

“God willing, we will discuss the matter again from time to time when needed,” he said after officiating the groundbreaking ceremony for the Sekolah Rendah Integrasi Teras Islam Bestari project here, today.

He was commenting on the move by several states, including Perlis, to close the gap during congregational prayers in mosques and surau while Johor has reduced physical distance requirements as set in the standard operating procedures.

In another development, Idris said he would hold a meeting with umrah operators following the government’s decision to suspend permission to travel to Saudi Arabia for umrah pilgrimage effective yesterday.

He said although the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry is the supervising body for umrah travel packages, he was open to discuss the problems faced by umrah operators.

Earlier, the media reported that the government had agreed on the temporary suspension of travel permission to perform the umrah for a month beginning January 8 for risk assessment purposes. – Bernama, January 9, 2022