Malaysia Introduces Harsh Penalties for Skipping Friday Prayers, Drawing Criticism

Terengganu, a state in Malaysia, has introduced stringent penalties for those who fail to attend Friday prayers. The new laws stipulate that men found absent from Friday prayers without a valid excuse could be sentenced to up to two years in prison. Furthermore, offenders may also be subjected to fines. This decision has been met with significant international criticism, with many condemning it as a violation of human rights. The move has painted Malaysia as even stricter than countries like Pakistan and Saudi Arabia in its approach to Islamic practices. The new rules state that for a first offense, individuals can be imprisoned for up to two years, fined 3,000 ringgit (approximately $635 USD), or both. The previous law allowed for a maximum of six months in jail or a fine of 1,000 ringgit (approximately $212 USD) for missing three consecutive Friday prayers. Mosques will display signs to inform people about the new regulations, with action taken based on religious patrols and public reports. The Terengganu Islamic Affairs Department will also participate in these operations.