Pas seems to be blatantly going against the Sultan of Selangor, saying Muslims are not allowed to visit houses of worship of other religions.
Selangor Pas commissioner Datuk Ahmad Yunus Hairi said Muslims must follow the prohibition by the Selangor Islamic Religious Council (Mais) from visiting churches and temples.
However, this goes against what Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah had said in a media interview that there was nothing wrong with Muslims visiting other places of worship as long as they were just observing.
The Ruler, who is the head of Islam in Selangor, said Muslims should not, however, take part in religious ceremonies while at churches and temples.
Yunus, however, said Mais’ directive was clear to avoid confusion and misunderstandings.
He said in a statement Muslims must follow the prohibition from visiting other places of worship to learn about different faiths.
Yunus said Sultan’s call acts as a reminder that proselytisation of Muslims is made illegal to avoid confusion and misunderstanding.
“Harmony between religions and peaceful life among the multiracial people of Selangor is very important for the stability and prosperity of this state.
“Pas will always emphasise this aspect and at the same time ensure that this ban by Mais is obeyed by all parties.
“Therefore, it is crucial to preserve tolerance and mutual respect between other communities,” he said.
For the record, the ban by Mais has specifically to do with visiting other places of worship to learn, and not about attending such things like weddings and funerals. – NST