KANGAR: Disputes between former spouses over child custody is the primary reason for nafkah (alimony) neglect in Perlis.
Perlis Syariah Chief Judge Jaidi Ahmad said roughly 100 cases of nafkah neglect are reported annually in the state.
He said while the figure is yet to reach an alarming level, it is vital to raise awareness about the importance of fulfilling the obligation.
"Some individuals disregard syariah court orders, making it imperative for us to ensure the community understands the role of the state's Syariah Court's Family Support Division. This division enables formal complaints to be lodged.
"Neglect in giving out 'nafkah' often stems from custody disputes, where lingering animosity between former spouses leads to lapses in 'nafkah' maintenance."
Jaidi was speaking at a press conference today after opening the state's Syariah Court Family Support Division Seminar on Enforcement and Implementation of Nafkah Orders.
Jaidi urged divorced couples to honour their responsibilities, particularly regarding visitation rights, to prevent issues.
"I remind former wives that, in some instances, denying fathers access to their children contributes to this problem. Both parties must understand and fulfil their duties.
"When visitation rights are respected, it encourages financial support from the former husband. Moreover, economic hardship and undue stress are other factors affecting nafkah compliance," he added.
He also stressed the importance of referring cases of nafkah neglect to the Family Support Division.
"Those with syariah court orders regarding nafkah should approach the Family Support Division to file complaints, enabling the division to enforce these orders.
"In cases where nafkah neglect arises from animosity between divorced couples, the Family Support Division will bring them together to negotiate, and Alhamdulillah, such cases can often be resolved," he said.
He added in cases where nafkah neglect is due to economic challenges, the Family Support Division would seek other remedies to address disputes.
"We have other parties responsible for providing nafkah, such as the father and other male relatives," he added.