Security forces perished in Lahad Datu classified as Syahid

Fatwa Committee of the National Council for Islamic Affairs announced Friday that security forces killed during the terrorist aggression in Lahad Datu recently are classified as afterlife martyr (syahid akhirat).

The aggression ignited by the followers of the Sulu Sultanate had killed at least eight of the country’s security forces.

They are deemed martyr as they were killed defending the safety of the people’s life, property, family, honour and sovereignty.

The Fatwa was decided on Wednesday and announced today through a Friday sermon text recited in mosques throughout the country.

"Let us pray that Allah SWT reward them accordingly for their efforts and great sacrifices and place them among the company of saints," said the sermon as quoted from the text.

The text was prepared by the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim).