KUALA LUMPUR: Perikatan Nasional (PN) chairman Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin has called on religious authorities to stop taking action against preachers and mosque committee who openly supported a certain political party in the last general election (GE15).
In a Facebook post today, the Pagoh member of parliament said religious bodies should not restrict preachers from spreading Islamic teachings simply due to differing political ideologies.
"I saw the news about some famous Islamic preachers who were banned from giving lectures in mosques and on television. There are also those whose TikTok videos of their ceramah were blocked.
"I also saw a viral video about the committee members of several mosques in Penang who resigned, claiming there was interference from the state government regarding their positions although they were elected by mosque members.
"I hope the (religious) authorities will not take action against the preachers and mosque committee members simply due to differences in political beliefs.
"Officials who administer Islamic religious affairs should not restrict the spread and teaching of Islam based on the beliefs of the Ahli Sunnah Wal Jamaah to the point of denying Muslims to gain knowledge in places where they gather," he wrote.
Muhyiddin, who is Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia president, also claimed interference in mosques' management in Penang, saying Muslim congregations were not allowed to manage their own mosques.
He claimed action had been taken against many influential people, including independent preachers and famous celebrities, who had openly voiced their support for PN in GE15.
"There were also those who expressed open support for other parties including Pakatan Harapan and Barisan Nasional. This is their right in a democratic country.
"Since the general election is over, it is best not to take action against any party that openly expresses support for a political party.
"Only then can it be said that elections in our country are conducted in a free, fair and competitive manner."