Women’s right protected under Syariah law

Syazwani Hj Rosli

THE implementations of the Syariah Penal Code Order 2013, which will begin to be enforced this April in phases, certainly preserved and protected the well-being of women.

This statement was highlighted by Hajah Norhatijah binti Haji Puteh, an officer from the Legal Syar’ie Office at the Ministry of Religious Affairs, while delivering a talk in a forum concerning women’s matter which was held in conjunction with the celebration of International Women’s Day held at the Sejahtera Hall of Sumbangsih Bahagia in Beribi.

In her presentation, Hajah Norhatijah focused on the general offences of women which will be implemented during the first phase of the Order such as Musahaqah (lesbian), out of wedlock pregnancy, having sexual intercourse out of wedlock, close proximity (Khalwat), indecent act and other matters related to the welfare of women.

During her talk, Hajah Norhatijah also stressed on the issues which have always been raised by the public on offences under Section 197 of the Order, ‘Indecent Behaviour’ in which offenders will be guilty of an offence and will be convicted with a fine not more than $2,000, imprisonment within a term not exceeding six month or both.

According to her, Muslim and non-Muslim women who wear indecent clothing that tarnish Islamic images in public settings, indecent behaviour that causes anger of those who witness, brings upon negative influences and corrupts moral values, will be considered committing offences under the section.

She also gave an emphasis on Section 198 of the Order for cross-dressing offenders, women who dressed up like men or vice versa. These offenders will only be convicted if they are wearing it without any reasonable or immoral purposes.

She highlighted that if the purpose of wearing the specified attire required for the job such as artist then it will not be considered as an offence. On the case of men who dressed like a female, if they are inherently soft then it would not also be considered as an offence.

Hajah Norhatijah also touched on offences made relating to family issues, acts as meidators and social issues as well.

“With the implementation of this order, it is hoped that it will stimulate positive changes among the youths, especially female teenagers, to not fall into the offences described.”

Siti Noraziah Haji Asli, Assistant Officer from the Dakwah Dissemination Section of the Islamic Dakwah Centre, also took the opportunity to deliver a muslimah talk which mainly highlighted on performing one’s Solat (prayers), punishments in the Hereafter for those who do not perform as well as importance of covering the aurah (aurat) and the right attire to be worn by a Muslimah.

The forum was well-received by the 500 women who were invited to participate and gain knowledge from the panelists of the forum which is expected to be shared with their family, friends and children.


Sumber - Borneo Bulletin Online