THE alleged case of a woman reportedly entering a second marriage while still legally wed has drawn stern condemnation from Penang’s Mufti, Professor Datuk Dr Mohd Sukki Othman, who emphasised that any action undermining the sanctity of a marital contract constitutes a serious breach under both Shariah and civil law.
“Acts such as deception, concealment of facts, or violations of Shariah in marriage matters are grave offences that have significant repercussions on the Islamic family institution,” Dr Mohd Sukki told Harian Metro. He reiterated that Islamic law unequivocally prohibits any marriage conducted while a woman remains bound by an existing marriage or is within her ‘iddah’ period.
“Even if the ceremony meets the formal requirements outwardly, it is still considered invalid under Shariah because it contravenes prescribed law,” he said.
Dr Mohd Sukki expressed further concern if such marriages were conducted using false declarations or by concealing the true marital status, describing such conduct not only as sinful but also as a form of fraud that undermines the integrity and sanctity of Islamic marriage.
He also highlighted the legal implications of failing to report a valid divorce to the Islamic Religious Department. “The divorce pronouncement remains valid in Shariah, but neglecting to report it constitutes an offence under family law. Such negligence can lead to confusion over marital status, legal breaches, and disputes over lineage, maintenance, and rights of those involved.”
“Islam places great importance on the principle of sad al-zara’i, closing avenues of harm. Reporting divorces and obtaining official verification is not merely administrative—it safeguards the objectives of Shariah, protecting religion, lineage, and human dignity,” he said.
Dr Mohd Sukki urged the public to treat matters of marriage and divorce with due seriousness, ensuring all procedures are conducted through legitimate and authoritative channels.
“Those involved in this case should repent, rectify the situation in accordance with Shariah and civil law, and submit to the relevant religious authorities for further action.
“This should serve as a reminder that ignorance, negligence, and trivialising Allah’s laws can cause great harm to individuals, families, and the harmony of the Muslim community,” he added.
The controversy first came to light when Ekin Derahim, a family member, alleged via Facebook that her sister-in-law, originally from Terengganu, had married a second man in Songkhla, Thailand, while still married to her brother.
The matter reportedly emerged on 6 December after villagers assisted the family in confronting the woman at the residence of her alleged second husband in Batu 11, Tanah Merah.
In response, the Terengganu Islamic Religious Affairs Department (JHEAT) confirmed it would summon the woman and her alleged partner, who now reside in Tanah Merah, Kelantan, to verify the circumstances.
Dr Muhammad Khalil Abdul Hadi, Terengganu’s Committee Chairman for Religious Information, Da’wah, and Shariah Empowerment, stated, “Clarification from the couple is essential before any further action can be taken. This involves coordination between the enforcement and family law units.”
The Kelantan Islamic Religious Affairs Department (JAHEIK) has also opened an investigation into the allegations.
State Executive Councillor for Islamic Development, Da’wah, Information, and Inter-State Relations, Mohd Asri Mat Daud, confirmed that authorities would conduct a comprehensive inquiry into the matter.
The case has sparked widespread concern, underlining the critical importance of adhering to both Shariah law and civil regulations in matters of marriage and divorce, and ensuring that the integrity of family structures within the Muslim community is preserved. - December 14, 2025
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