By Norrasyidah Arshad
SHAH ALAM, April 3 — The Selangor Fatwa Council has ruled that fasting by Muslim will not be invalidated if they receive the Covid-19 vaccine.
The Selangor Mufti Dato’ Setia Mohd Tamyes Abdul Wahid said the decision was made based on the argument that the jab was not in an open cavity and was taken to preserve life and comply with instructions issued by the government.
“If the jab goes through a non-open channel such as the body muscles, thighs or arms, provided it is not satisfying the hunger, then the fasting is not invalidated. From the aspect of ‘maqasid shariah’, Muslims are required to take care of their life so it is necessary to take the vaccination.
“The government’s move to get this vaccine is a noble effort to curb the spread of the pandemic. Therefore, any government effort that brings benefits to the people must be supported. Obeying the ruler is something that is required by the Islamic law,” he said in a statement.
He advised Muslims receiving the vaccination to adhere to the standard operating procedures (SOPs) set by the Health Ministry.
On March 26, the Sultan of Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah Alhaj called on the people not to hesitate to receive the vaccination.
His Majesty also supported the call and advice for the people to not be worried about receiving vaccination while fasting during Ramadan.
