By Selangor Journal Team
SHAH ALAM, March 7 — Sultan of Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah Alhaj has announced that he will not remain as the National Council for Islamic Religious Affairs (MKI) chairman once his term ends on March 9.
In a statement on Facebook, the Selangor Royal Office said the state Ruler, who began his duties on March 10, 2022, has expressed his desire to see the council being led by a new leadership.
This is despite a provision allowing for the chairmanship to be extended.
“His Royal Highness does not intend to continue as the MKI chairman and has entrusted the Conference of Rulers to elect a new chairman from among the other Rulers.
“This is to ensure the continuity of MKI’s functions and aspirations, and that they can be better implemented under the new chairman’s leadership,” it said.
The Selangor Royal Office also noted that throughout his two-year tenure as MKI chairman, Sultan Sharafuddin has strictly upheld and defended the principles of Islam in all decisions, which were made through consultation with experts and stakeholders.
“His Royal Highness also expressed his utmost gratitude for the commitment given by MKI committee members and secretariat, comprising representatives from all states and the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim), for carrying out their responsibilities effectively.
“This has allowed all MKI meetings to be conducted smoothly,” it said.
Sultan Sharafuddin was elected as MKI chairman for a period of two years during the 258th meeting of the Conference of Rulers, in line with the recommendation of the Islamic Affairs Supreme Committee at the federal level.
Regulation 2(1) of the MKI Regulations 2022 stipulates that the MKI chairman shall be elected by the Conference of Rulers from amongst the state Rulers and that he shall hold the position for a two-year period, which can be renewed upon the end of his term.
Meanwhile, the Selangor Royal Office said in his final meeting with the MKI committee and secretariat, Sultan Sharafuddin had reviewed all the minutes of past meetings.
“He also ensured that the special committee to study the competence of state legislative assemblies to enact Islamic laws is carrying out its entrusted duties.”
