Claims Of Gov't Inaction Over Quran Desecration Unfounded - JAIPk Director

IPOH, March 1 (Bernama) -- The government is not keeping silent on the recent incident involving the desecration of the Quran, instead, action has been taken to ensure justice and religious harmony are preserved, said Perak Islamic Religious Department (JAIPk) director Datuk Harith Fadzilah Abdul Halim.

He said allegations by certain parties claiming the government has done nothing are unfounded, as the authorities have already initiated legal proceedings.

"The authorities have taken appropriate action, including making an arrest. Therefore, the claim that no action was taken is untrue because the authorities have carried out their duties, which constitutes government action," he told Bernama when contacted today.

He cited the mobilisation of agencies such as the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) to investigate social media content related to the incident as an example.

"It is difficult to please everyone. Let us not say the government does not care while investigations are underway and the MCMC is also monitoring and analysing related websites. It is wrong to say the government is not taking any action," he said.

Harith Fadzilah also advised the public not to be influenced by calls to take the law into their own hands, which exceeds legal boundaries and contradicts the principles of harmony.

He added that Islam is a beautiful religion that never teaches its followers to insult the religions or gods of others, let alone engage in reckless provocation that could trigger tension.

"Do not take individual action without a clear purpose that goes against religious requirements and the law. We have laws, so follow the proper channels to avoid creating larger problems for yourselves," he said.

He added that Muslims should maintain decorum when expressing protests rather than acting on emotions with verbal abuse.

Meanwhile, Muslim Youth Movement of Malaysia (ABIM) Perak branch Special Tasks Executive Committtee member, Mohd Fathie Md Ramli said any issue involving religious insults must be handled seriously and prudently by the authorities, in accordance with existing legal provisions, without causing societal tension.

Mohd Fathie said the public should verify the authenticity of news before sharing it and leave enforcement matters to the authorities.

"The allegation (that the government is not taking action against religious insults) is unfounded and can cause tension among the people, threatening the harmony of the multiracial and multi-religious society in this country.

"As Muslims, we are required to remain calm and not act recklessly. The authorities should provide official explanations and transparent updates on investigations so the public receives authentic information," he said.

Furthermore, Mohd Fathie said all parties must be responsible for safeguarding the sanctity of the Quran and preserving national harmony.

"Accusations without evidence will only worsen the situation. Let us act with wisdom, guided by the law and the principles of justice, to ensure the peace and unity of the people remain protected," said Mohd Fathie, who is also Muallim ABIM president.

On Feb 25, a Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah (UMPSA) student was detained to assist in investigations for allegedly insulting Islam on social media by stepping on the Quran. As of yesterday, 28 police reports have been lodged nationwide regarding the case.

Kuantan Police Chief ACP Ashari Abu Samah said the remand for the 21-year-old man, which expired yesterday, has been extended until March 3 following instructions from the Public Prosecutor to complete the investigation.

-- BERNAMA