In a statement, minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (religious affairs) Idris Ahmad clarified that such a law would apply only to adherents of Islam and not other religions , as it would derive its power from Article 11(4) of the Federal Constitution, which reads:

“State law and in respect of the federal territories of Kuala Lumpur, Labuan and Putrajaya, federal law may control or restrict the propagation of any religious doctrine or belief among persons professing the religion of Islam.”

As such, Idris said: “The promotion of religion to believers who aren’t Muslims is allowed by law. The right to freedom of religion under Article 11 is still guaranteed even after the bill is enacted and passed.”

The potential new law first drew the public’s attention on Monday when news portal HarakahDaily reported Idris’s deputy, Ahmad Marzuk Shaary, as saying that the proposed law was part of the federal government’s “empowerment plan”, which would involve 11 legislative steps, including four new laws and seven amendments.

Idris said such a law had already been enacted in 10 states, dating back to the 1980s.

Penang, Sabah, Sarawak, Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya and Labuan are the only states and territories in the country not to have such legislation, and its enactment would only apply to the federal territories.

“Its enactment (in other states) is dependent on their respective state legislative assemblies.”

He emphasised that the bill’s enactment would be done in accordance with the law and proper processes.

“I hope that this issue is not polemicised by certain parties and will not threaten the harmony and unity of Keluarga Malaysia.”

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