No more physical distancing during congregational prayers - PM Ismail Sabri

KUALA LUMPUR: Congregational prayers in all mosques and surau, as well as mass prayers in all non-Muslim houses of worship, can now be performed without having to observe physical distancing as the country enters the Transition to Endemic Phase from April 1, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob announced.

However, he said the final standard operating procedures (SOP) for the matter are subject to the decision of the respective religious authority in the states.

He said the gaps between the congregants in the congregational prayers had been an issue among Muslims as many insisted to do away with the physical distancing during prayers.

"So, starting April 1, the Imam can say 'close the gaps' as there will be no more one-meter physical distancing rule.

"However, as the Federal Constitution stated that matters relating to the religion of Islam are under the jurisdiction of the Ruler of the State. So, even when I say there will be no more physical distancing rule, it is just a recommendation from the Federal Government, and it is up to the state government to make the final decision," he told a press conference at Parliament building here today.

The Prime Minister said the SOP for mass prayers in non-Muslim houses of prayer would be subject to the decision of the Ministry of National Unity and its Unit for Other Religions (UNIFOR).

Throughout the pandemic, the federal and state governments decided that congregational prayers in all mosques and surau be held in compliance with the one-metre physical distancing rule and the wearing of face masks.

On Jan 8, Perlis had allowed all congregants to close the gaps during congregational prayers, while Johor decided to reduce the gaps from one metre to just half a metre.

-- BERNAMA