PAS President Urges Repeal of Laws Restricting Islamic Authority

PAS President Abdul Hadi Awang has renewed calls for the repeal of laws he describes as remnants of colonial rule that constrain the application of Islamic law in Malaysia. Speaking on the matter, Hadi argued that several existing statutes impede the implementation of comprehensive Islamic governance within the country's legal framework.

Central to his remarks is Act 355, the Shariah Courts Criminal Jurisdiction Act 1965, which the Islamist party has previously sought to amend. PAS has long advocated for modifications to the legislation to enable the implementation of hudud—corporal punishments prescribed under Islamic law—within Malaysia's shariah courts.

The call reflects ongoing debates within Malaysia's political landscape regarding the scope and application of Islamic law. While PAS views current restrictions as impediments to religious practice, amendments to such legislation remain contentious, with concerns raised about their broader implications for Malaysia's constitutional framework and minority rights.

Hadi's position underscores PAS's commitment to expanding Islamic legal authority, a priority that has shaped the party's political agenda and legislative initiatives in recent years. The matter continues to generate discussion among lawmakers, religious scholars, and civil society observers regarding the appropriate balance between Islamic governance and Malaysia's constitutional arrangements.