KLANG: Politicians and those linked to political parties will no longer be able to teach or preach on matters related to Islam in Selangor, says Tan Sri Abdul Aziz Mohd Yusuf.

       The Selangor Islamic Religious Council (MAIS) chairman said in a statement on Tuesday (Dec 28) that the accreditation previously given to politically active preachers will be revoked on Friday (Dec 31).

       He said that this is in line with Selangor Ruler Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah's decree that Islam must not be used as a political tool when it is disseminated in surau and mosques in the state.

       "The Sultan does not consent to accrediting political activists to teach Islam in Selangor to protect its sanctity," said Abdul Aziz.

       He added there were concerns that Islam could be wrongly used for political agendas that could create slander, as well as create problems and divisions amongst Muslims in Selangor.

       However, Abdul Aziz said the state executive councillor in charge of Islamic affairs will be given an exemption with the condition that he does not speak of political matters when speaking about or teaching Islam.

       Those caught teaching Islam without accreditation in Selangor are liable to a two-year jail term, a RM3,000 fine or both under the state's Syariah Enactment.

       According to Abdul Aziz, those who insult or challenge Sultan Sharafuddin's decree on the matter will also face the same punishment.

       Those wanting to preach in Selangor can only do so if they have been granted accreditation by the state.