THERE will be no more physical distancing during congregational prayers for Muslims and non Muslims said Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob said today.

He added that the final decision on Muslim congregation rests with the state governments as matters pertaining to religious issues are within its discretion.

“Many have been asking about this, therefore, we would like to announce that there will be no more physical distancing in congregational prayers for all. Not just for Muslims but non Muslims too.”

“The ‘Imam’ can call for all to stand side by side while praying however, with today’s decision, the state government has the final say.”

“As it is stipulated under the federal constitution that religious matters are up to state governments to decide, we let the state governments have the final say,” he said during a press conference today.

In February, the Selangor Islamic Religious Department (Jais), through a circular dated February 21, set a two-dose and booster dose requirement for congregants to be able to perform Friday prayers at mosques and suraus in the state.

Responding to the circular, Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim) said the standard operating procedure (SOP) requiring congregants to have completed two doses of Covid-19 vaccination plus a booster shot to be able to perform Friday prayers only applies to mosques and suraus in Selangor.

Jakim deputy director-general (Policy) Hakimah Mohd Yusoff said the SOP for congregational prayers at mosques and suraus in other states remains the same and are subject to the decision of the respective state religious authorities.

“Jakim respects the ruling made by the Selangor religious authorities and advises Muslims to abide by the SOP set to control the spread of Covid-19,” she said in a statement.

Ismail added that there will be no more capacity limit for any indoor or outdoor activities.

“As the country will move to the endemic phase, there will be no more capacity limit for any events. For example weddings. There is no limit for people to attend but there is a need to have reasonable distancing among each other,” said Ismail. – March 8, 2022.