The Malaysian state of Terengganu has introduced new penalties for Muslim men who miss Friday prayers without a valid reason, including imprisonment of up to two years. The regulations, which came into effect this week, were announced by the governing Pan-Malaysian Islamic Party (PAS).
First-time offenders face up to two years in prison and a fine of 3,000 ringgit (£527), or both. Previously, those who missed three consecutive Friday prayers faced a maximum of six months in prison or a fine of up to 1,000 ringgit (£176). Enforcement will rely on public reports and religious patrols coordinated with the Terengganu Islamic Affairs Department.
Human rights groups have criticised the move. Phil Robertson, director of Asia Human Rights and Labour Advocates, said: 'Laws like this give Islam a bad name. Freedom of religion and belief also means freedom to not believe or participate, so Terengganu authorities are blatantly abusing human rights with this draconian law.' He called on Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim to revoke the penalties.
Terengganu state legislative assembly member Muhammad Khalil Abdul Hadi defended the measures, telling local media that punishments would only be imposed as a last resort. 'This reminder is important because Friday prayers are not only a religious symbol but also an expression of obedience among Muslims,' he said.
Muslim-majority Malaysia operates a dual-track legal system, with sharia courts handling personal and family matters for Muslims, who make up about two-thirds of the population. PAS governs Terengganu and three other states, holding all 32 seats in the state's legislative assembly. In 2024, Malaysia's federal court struck down similar sharia criminal laws in neighbouring Kelantan, ruling them unconstitutional, prompting protests from PAS supporters.
