PN candidate advised to cease religious talks at mosques ahead of Ayer Kuning by-election

PERIKATAN Nasional’s (PN) candidate for the upcoming Ayer Kuning state by-election, Abd Muhaimin Malek, has been advised to halt all religious talks and sermons at mosques and suraus following his formal nomination.

The advice, issued by the Perak State Mufti Department, was related to concerns over political neutrality in places of worship. Abd Muhaimin has since complied, according to his campaign manager, Misbahul Munir Masduki.

“The candidate is fully following the advice issued by the Mufti Department,” Misbahul said during PN’s daily press briefing in Tapah on Wednesday, as reported by Bernama.

Asked whether Abd Muhaimin’s religious accreditation—known locally as *tauliah*—had been revoked, Misbahul said he was not in a position to confirm, stating, “I have no information on the matter.”

Abd Muhaimin, who also serves as PAS Tapah Division chief, was recently called in by the police to provide a statement concerning his religious teaching credentials. The matter has since been referred to the Perak Islamic Religious and Malay Customs Council (MAIPk) for further review and possible action.

The Mufti Department's directive comes as religious activities in mosques during election campaigns are often scrutinised to ensure compliance with regulations separating politics from religious platforms.

Voters in Ayer Kuning will head to the polls on 26 April in a three-cornered contest featuring Barisan Nasional (BN) candidate Dr Mohamad Yusri Bakir, PN’s Abd Muhaimin Malek, and Bawani KS from Parti Sosialis Malaysia (PSM). - April 16, 2025