KUALA LUMPUR – Police have confirmed that a statement on the prohibition of the use of loudspeakers for azan (Muslim call to prayer), which has gone viral on social media, was not issued in Malaysia, but in Pune, India.
Bukit Aman Criminal Investigation Department director Datuk Seri Abd Jalil Hassan said the order was made by Maharashtra Navnirman Sena president Raj Thackeray and was reported by The New Indian Express portal on April 17.
He said Thackeray also ordered the removal of all loudspeakers from the mosque before May 3 and threatened to play the “Hanuman Chalisa” (Hindu devotional hymn) on loudspeakers of mosques that did not comply with the order.
Police are also investigating the owner of a TikTok account known as Syierabahari for the provocative comments, as it could threaten peace and racial harmony in the country, he said in a statement today.
He said the investigation was conducted under Section 505(c) of the Penal Code for issuing a statement with the intent of inciting certain groups or races, and Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 for improper use of network facilities or network services.
Jalil advised the public against making any speculation that could affect the investigation and to be vigilant on issues that affect religious and racial sensitivities.
“Police will not compromise and will take strict action against any individual who deliberately threatens public order and safety,” he said. – Bernama, April 27, 2022
