The Malaysian Insight

PENANG is the latest state to ban controversial Muslim preacher Dr Zakir Naik from giving talks in the state.

Deputy Chief Minister I Ahmad Zakiyuddin Abdul Rahman said the Penang Islamic Council (MAIPP) believed his views were not suitable for the state.

“Penang has never taken a stand on his presence in the state as there had never been any request for him to hold talks here.

“But Zakir had come to see me earlier, before the current controversy surrounding him, and had wanted to give a talk here,” he said.

However, MAIPP did not encourage him to hold his talk as it was of the view the situation in the state was not suitable for his type of ceramah.

Kedah and Perlis have prohibited Zakir from giving public talks.

Kedah Religious Affairs Committee chairman Dr Ismail Salleh said the Indian national may visit the state but could not speak at public events.

“We prioritise the harmony of the people. Don’t add oil to fire, lest the fire gets bigger.

“We will not put the unity we have at risk,” he reportedly said.

Last Friday, Perlis police chief Noor Mushar Mohd said Zakir and his family had been ordered to refrain from speaking as planned at a religious event in the state.

Police said they would take action under the Peaceful Assembly Act 2012 if Zakir and his kin disobeyed the order. – August 18, 2019.