KUALA LUMPUR – The Muzakarah Committee of the National Council for Islamic Religious Affairs is set to convene a special meeting to discuss issues relating to standard operating procedures (SOPs) for mosque and surau activities, including a proposal to reduce the gap between congregants during congregational prayers.
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Idris Ahmad said he had asked the Malaysian Islamic Development Department to arrange the meeting for a briefing on the current Covid-19 risk assessment by the Health Ministry (MoH).
He said this is following the announcement by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob on states transitioning to the next phase, as well as relaxation of the SOPs under the National Recovery Plan.
“I believe a decision will be achieved for the good of the public, and hope that mosque and surau activities, especially congregational prayers, will be allowed as usual with certain SOPs,” he said in a statement today.
Apart from the MoH and the National Security Council, Idris said all members of the Islamic council, comprising state muftis and appointed members among experts, have also been invited to attend the meeting.
On Friday, Saudi Arabia announced that congregational prayers can be held at full capacity at the Grand Mosque in Mecca and the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina beginning today. – Bernama, October 17, 2021
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