Muslim men in Malaysian state face jail or fine for skipping Friday prayers

Muslim men in Malaysia’s Terengganu state could face up to two years in prison, a fine, or both if they skip Friday prayers without a valid reason, under Sharia law.

Terengganu, governed by the conservative Pan-Malaysian Islamic Party (PAS), announced on Monday that offenders would be punished under the Sharia Criminal Offences Act with fines reaching 3,000 ringgit (approximately 200,000 Pakistani rupees).

Previously, penalties were only applied to those missing three consecutive Friday prayers.

State executive council member Muhammad Khalil Abdul Hadi emphasised that missing even a single Friday prayer could now lead to punishment.

“This reminder is important because Friday prayers are not only a religious symbol but also an expression of obedience among Muslims,” he said, according to local newspaper Berita Harian. He added that reminders would be posted at mosques and violations could be reported by the public or detected during patrols.

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The move is part of PAS’s broader effort to enforce stricter interpretations of Islamic law in Malaysia.

The party, which is the largest in parliament and governs four of Malaysia’s 13 states, has previously advocated for Hudud laws, which prescribe harsh punishments for crimes such as theft and adultery.

Malaysia’s dual legal system separates civil and Sharia law, with the latter regulating personal and family matters for Muslims.

The country’s Malay population, all of whom are considered Muslims under Malaysian law, comprises about two-thirds of the 33 million population.

In November 2024, Johor state officials also signaled enforcement to ensure Muslim men attend Friday prayers.

Earlier this year, Malaysia’s top court struck down several state laws based on Sharia, causing protests from Islamists concerned about the erosion of religious courts.