Critics of the amendments to empower the Shariah courts should should shift their attention to the many “outdated laws” in the country instead of being fixated on Act 355, PAS president Datuk Seri Abdul Hadi Awang said last night.
“Laws that permit death by hanging, which era is that from? Laws that have no spirit?
“These are the types that they should be discussing, and not argue about Islamic laws which they have little knowledge about,” Abdul Hadi said, appearing to allude to civil laws, which still hands out death sentences for certain crimes.
Stating his claim, the Marang MP said that “man-made laws” have thus far been unable to address crimes globally, and within the country, appearing to refer to civil laws yet again.
The rally which began at 2pm at Padang Merbok, drew over 50,000 attendees, packing the field to the brim right up till 11.15pm when the event ended after Abdul Hadi’s speech.
Those present had also waited under the rain to hear speeches from speakers from PAS, and several NGOs making their stand in support of the amendments for Act 355.
Abdul Hadi, who is Marang MP is seeking to amend Act 355 to raise the ceiling on Shariah punishments from three years’ imprisonment, six strokes of the cane and an RM5,000 fine to 30 years’ imprisonment, 100 strokes, and an RM100,000 fine.
The rally yesterday was organised by several Muslim NGOs and led by PAS – themalaymailonline
