According to its president, Abdul Hadi Awang – who tabled the private members bill to elevate the status of shariah courts in May – the Islamist party will represent the Muslims and non-Muslims who have agreed with his proposed amendments, which includes stiffer penalties for certain offences.

“Wait and see,” he told a press conference at the Parliament lobby here today.

When asked as to the location and date for the rally, the Marang MP said it will be announced soon, and that it may take place by March next year.

He said this was to allow them time to embark on a nationwide tour explaining just how the proposed amendments would be executed, while addressing the concerns of non-Muslims who fear that it may indirectly affect them as well.

“We will meet with Muslim NGOs and hold dialogues with the non-Muslims,” Hadi said.

“I ask for the Muslims to protect the good relationship we have with the others. The most important thing is that we all have to support the planned public gathering.”

Hadi had earlier today tabled an amended version of his private member’s bill to amend the shariah act. This includes the Islamic courts’ power to hand down a 30-year jail sentence, a RM100,000 fine, and 100 strokes of the rotan.

Currently, the maximum jail sentence stands at three years, while offenders can be fined up to a maximum RM5,000 and six strokes of the rotan.

Hadi said the amendments would be explained in detail in the next parliamentary sitting.