Muslims participation in demonstrations against law is 'haram'

Kuala Lumpur -  Malaysia's National Fatwa Committee has described as 'haram' for Muslims to participate in any gathering or demonstration against the law, saying it causes  disturbance in the country.

National Fatwa Committee chairman Professor Emeritus Tan Sri Dr Abdul Shukor Husin, said the committee was seriously looking into the issue, as some Muslims resorted to riots during  street demonstrations like the one in Kuala Lumpur on April 28.

 "Rioting, causing disturbance and damaging public property are all forbidden by Islam," The Star quoted Husin, as saying.

 He added, "This also applies to any intention to topple a duly-elected government by organising such demonstrations".

 "No one is exempted, and cannot support any efforts that can cause harm, anxiety or unrest among Muslims to the point of the community becoming split, what more if there is bloodshed,"  he said after chairing the 99th meeting of the committee.

Husin said Muslims who had participated in such demonstrations must regret their steps, as Islam never preached its followers to resort to steps that harm people's lives.

He also spoke about the issue of lesbians, gays, bisexuals and transgenders (LGBT) at the meeting and decided that no fatwa (edict) was needed on it, as it was clearly haram in Islam.

Husin also reminded Muslims not to be directly or indirectly involve in any movement or campaign that supported LGBTs.