A Malaysian State is Enforcing Penalties for Missing Friday Prayers

The Malaysian state of Terengganu has enforced a new provision under the Takzir Shariah Criminal Offences law, introducing penalties for Muslim men who miss Friday congregational prayers without a valid reason. The law stipulates that offenders may face a fine of up to RM3,000, imprisonment of up to two years, or both.

Previously, punishment was only applied to those who missed three consecutive Friday prayers, with fines capped at RM1,000 and jail terms of up to six months. The new regulation lowers the threshold, allowing legal action after a single absence.

State authorities explained that the move is intended to strengthen the observance of Friday prayers, regarded as a central religious duty for Muslim men. Officials noted that the prayer serves as both a spiritual obligation and an important communal practice.

Enforcement will involve awareness campaigns, including the display of banners in mosques. Religious enforcement officers, along with public reporting, will be responsible for monitoring cases of non-attendance.

The law applies only to Muslim men in Terengganu, in line with Malaysia's dual legal system where Islamic law governs personal and religious matters for Muslims. The update forms part of the state's wider effort to reinforce religious practices through Shariah-based governance.