Muslim Men in Malaysia Face Jail for Skipping Friday Prayers
Muslim men in Malaysia’s Terengganu state could now face up to two years in prison, a fine of 3,000 ringgit, or both, if they skip Friday prayers without a valid excuse. The move, announced by the state government led by the conservative Pan-Malaysian Islamic Party (PAS), expands the scope of religious penalties under the Sharia Criminal Offences Act.
Previously, punishments were only enforced on men who missed three consecutive Friday prayers, but under the new ruling, even a single absence could result in legal action. Terengganu’s state executive council member Muhammad Khalil Abdul Hadi emphasized that Friday prayers are not only an Islamic obligation but also a symbol of faith and unity. He added that mosques across the state would display reminders, while officials on patrol or members of the public could report violators.
Local reports suggest the stricter enforcement reflects PAS’s broader vision of implementing a conservative interpretation of Islamic law in Malaysia. The party, which governs four out of Malaysia’s thirteen states and holds the largest number of seats in parliament, has long pushed for the introduction of Hudud laws prescribing severe punishments for crimes such as theft and adultery.
Malaysia operates under a dual legal system, with civil law applying nationwide and Sharia law governing personal, family, and religious obligations for Muslims. The country’s Malay population, who make up about two-thirds of Malaysia’s 33 million people, are legally considered Muslim.
This is not the first time Malaysian states have moved to tighten enforcement of Friday prayers. In November 2024, Johor state also indicated plans to strengthen penalties to ensure attendance. Earlier in 2025, the Malaysian top court struck down several state-level Sharia laws, triggering protests by Islamist groups who accused the judiciary of weakening religious courts.
The new law in Terengganu is expected to spark fresh debate in Malaysia about the balance between religious enforcement and personal freedoms in a diverse and modernizing society. Supporters of the move argue that it strengthens Islamic values, while critics fear it could fuel further division in a multi-ethnic and multi-religious nation.
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