MCA Religious Harmony Bureau Chairman Ti Lian Ker said this in response to PAS President Abdul Hadi Awang’s statement that those criticising hudud law appeared to be more sympathetic towards criminals than the “unfortunate” victims and society.
“On the contrary, justice hurried is justice buried if PAS’ hudud is rushed purely in a political consideration for Umno and the Islamist party, without regard to its implications and possible mis-implementation in a multiracial society.”
In a statement issued today, Ti said the proposed amendments to the Syariah Court (Criminal Jurisdiction) (Amendment) Bill 2016 have far-reaching and possible adverse consequences to all Malaysians.
“Therefore, it should not be rushed or be left solely to politicians with a political agenda to vote without the usual legislative practices, processes or safeguards.”
He also rubbished Hadi’s assertion that supporting hudud was every Muslim’s duty, saying as this was already disputed by renowned Islamic jurists. He said it may be a mere tactic for PAS to bully Muslims into succumbing to the party’s political agenda.
“Many Muslim MPs, who had privately stated their reservation, may also be intimidated into supporting the private bill when Hadi invoked the name of Islam and warn Muslims not to disagree with PAS’ version of hudud.”
Grave consequences
Ti said as Hadi himself had admitted that the amendments proposed would apply to every state and not only Kelantan, all Malaysians should be allowed to freely discuss the attempt to enhance powers held by shariah courts.
This is also applicable as such an amendment would carry grave consequences which can affect the fundamental principles of justice, freedom and rights of all Malaysians.
“The amendments proposed should no longer be solely in the domain of Muslims alone or a compulsive duty by Muslims as asserted by the PAS president.
“The proposed amendments should be initiated by the government after a thorough study and public feedback of its impact and gravity on Malaysians of all walks of life.
“Any intended increase of the punishments prescribed should be in accordance to sound principles of law and adhere to the teachings of Islam in the truest sense and not by politicians alone whose whims and fancies may place others at their mercy.”