PUTRAJAYA: Strict enforcement is essential against groups spreading deviant teachings, said Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na'im Mokhtar.
He said the recent call by His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, on the enforcement against deviant teachings saw the need for strict action by religious authorities or the police.
"I will direct the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim) to hold discussions with state Islamic religious departments, particularly their enforcement divisions, to address the issue of deviant teachings," he told a press conference today.
Na'im said that in upholding His Majesty's decree, he would soon seek an audience with His Majesty to get detailed instructions regarding the setting up of a special committee to tackle deviant teachings.
He added that His Majesty's decree on the need for a religious reference centre to disseminate accurate information and knowledge was crucial in light of the challenge of uncontrolled information flooding via social media.
"This matter will be discussed with Jakim, the federal religious agency that coordinates religious issues. Given that His Majesty has decreed the establishment of such a centre, we will look into how it can be formed."
Na'im said he also supported His Majesty's call for the public, especially social media users, to maintain good conduct and language on these platforms.
"Let us all uphold His Majesty's decree to use social media platforms in a positive manner, respecting each other, and fostering unity and love among our multi-ethnic society."
Earlier, His Majesty called for the government to strengthen enforcement against deviant teachings and to establish religious reference centres to disseminate accurate information and knowledge.
His Majesty said the country was facing a challenge due to the influx of unregulated information via social media.