A PAS assemblyman in Penang has suggested that development plans must be vetted by an Islamic committee before the local authorities sign their approval.

Yusni Mat Piah (Penaga-PAS) made the suggestion at the state legislative assembly this morning, citing unhappiness among Muslims earlier this year over an apartment’s lighting arrangement that showed a cross.

He said it was time for the Rahmatan lil ‘alamin’ (Mercy to all creations) concept to be extended to development matters.

“The state has a shura council that can play a role in this matter. The committee can evaluate development plans before approvals are given.

“I hope the religious exco can give his views on the matter,” he said during question time at the state assembly.

Yusni had earlier asked the state government to explain the issue with the giant cross, which appeared the lights were turned on at the common areas of a Jelutong apartment building.

State local government exco Jagdeep Singh Deo said the administration knew about the matter after pictures of the cross went viral on social media in January.

He did not deny that the matter was religiously sensitive.

Jagdeep said the architect consultant of the project had been called up to explain.

“They informed the state that it was a coincidence, not done on purpose. 

“The local council discussed with them, and has since asked for a proposal on how to address the matter,” he said. – April 30, 2019.