Overview

• Terengganu announced full enforcement of its Shariah Criminal Offences (Takzir) law, with penalties of up to two years’ imprisonment or fines up to RM3,000 for missing Friday prayers without a valid reason.
• Officials said action can be taken after a single absence, replacing a prior practice that targeted three consecutive missed prayers.
• The state outlined banners at mosques, public reminders, and enforcement through reports and patrols, with punishment described as a last resort after warnings.
• The announcement drew immediate criticism on social media, including from lawyer Azira Aziz, who argued that criminalising attendance is unnecessary.
• Analysts tie the move to PAS’s agenda in its Terengganu stronghold and note friction within Malaysia’s dual legal system following a 2024 Federal Court ruling that limited some state Shariah laws.