Kedah government reiterates 'Allah' exclusive to Muslims

The Kedah state government has reiterated that the use of the word 'Allah' is exclusive to Muslims.

Menteri Besar Datuk Mukhriz Tun Dr Mahathir said the stand is consistent with the national fatwa and decision of the Appeals Court on Oct 14 last year.

"The state considers it important to make a clear stand to avoid any untoward incidents.

"I am confident this stand will not affect the religious harmony in Kedah," he said after chairing the State Executive Council (Exco) meeting, here, Wednesday.

He said although the use of the word 'Allah' by other followers of other faiths was isolated in Kedah, it should be curbed before it became serious.

"There was a case in Seberang Perak followed by another in Kulim. I have discussed with my colleagues that we need to make a clear statement on this and not wait for it to spread."

Mukhriz also said the State Exco meeting also agreed to establish a Department of Governance and Integrity to strengthen the state's administration.

"The Kedah state government wants to emulate the governance and integrity of the federal government."

The new department will be headed by a senior officer (N54 or JUSA) while the deputy will be from the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC).