KOTA BHARU (Bernama) Marriage solemnisation ceremonies are now allowed at private premises and mosques with immediate effect, says Kelantan Islamic Religious Affairs Department (Jaheaik) director Datuk Che Mohd Rahim Jusoh.

       He however added that the ceremonies must not exceed 30 minutes and be conducted in full compliance with the standard operating procedures (SOPs) set.

       Apart from that, he said the ceremonies are only allowed to be attended by 10 people who have been fully vaccinated against Covid-19, including the bride and bridegroom, marriage official, and the wali or legal guardian of the bride and witnesses.

       "For couples and guardians of the bride who have not been fully vaccinated, they are required to undergo a Covid-19 screening test at least two days before the ceremony.

       Those who conduct the screening using the self-screening test kit must update the result via the MySejahtera application,” he said in a statement on Thursday (Sept 23).

       Che Mohd Rahim said the guardians of the bride can apply for wakalah wali (representative) if they are unable to attend the ceremony.

       "Only fully-vaccinated officials are allowed to solemnise the marriage. Potential brides and bridegrooms are also allowed to be solemnised by marriage officials from the neighbouring mukim if the official in their area has not completed his vaccination,” he said.

       He said the marriage ceremony can be cancelled if the SOPs are not complied with. - Bernama