KUALA LUMPUR: The Department of Islamic Development of Malaysia (Jakim) will now be under the purview of the Malay Rulers.

       The Sultan of Selangor has been appointed by the Conference of Rulers as the chairman of the Majlis Agama Nasional.

       Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah will head the council under a two year tenure, and Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob will be the deputy chairman.

       The decision was made today by the Malay Rulers on Thursday (March 10).

       Previously, Jakim reports to the Minister in charge of religious affairs and the PM.

       A palace source said that the decision reaffirms the authority of the Rulers in matters relating to Islam.

       “It will help clear any doubts and confusion about the jurisdiction and authority of Jakim, “ the source said.

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