Jais, Selangor Mufti dept have called up individual offering 'valet doa' service

The Selangor Islamic Religious Department (Jais) and the Selangor Mufti Department have called up the individual offering the 'Valet Doa' or prayer valet service in Makkah for specific prices, and advised him to stop.

Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Seri Jamil Khir Baharom said the Islamic Development Department of Malaysia (JAKIM) in collaboration with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) is also monitoring the individual's Facebook account.

"JAKIM also supports any action taken by MCMC in combatting activities which could affect the sanctity of Muslims and cause negative impact, misunderstandings, and corrupt the faith," he told the Dewan Rakyat today.

He was replying to a question from Datuk Normala Abdul Samad (BN-Pasir Gudang) on the government's action regarding the issue, and steps taken to address matters that could mar the sanctity of Islam.

Jamil Khir said Muslims in the country should also provide information to respective state Islamic religious departments and JAKIM if there were concerns on religious issues.

On Normala's supplementary question regarding the individual who insists on continuing the service saying the muftis had not issued a ruling on the matter, Jamil Khir said it did not mean that the individual could continue his business.

He said state mufti departments had taken the initiative and proactive measures to provide advice on religious concerns relating to the prohibition of promoting valet prayer services.

In fact, he said action can be taken against the individual for defying the muftis' directive.

"He should understand that there are elements that are very unhealthy in advertising (valet prayer) such as fees ranging from RM250 to RM5,000 depending on the place where the prayer is performed, and there are discounts...it's as though the prayers will truly be answered," he said. - BERNAMA