Bersatu Welcomes Passage of Selangor Syariah Bills, Backs Constitutional Elevation of Syariah Judiciary

SHAH ALAM, Aug 6 — BERSATU state assemblymen in Selangor have thrown their full support behind the state government’s passage of three landmark Islamic law bills, which include constitutionally recognizing Ahli Sunnah Wal Jamaah (ASWJ) as the official Islamic doctrine and elevating the Syariah judicial system.

In a media statement issued today, Hulu Kelang Assemblyman Datuk Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali stated that the Selangor State Assembly passed the crucial enactments during its sitting that commenced on August 3, 2026.

Key among the legislation is the Selangor State Constitution (Amendment) Enactment 2026 Bill, which explicitly defines the state’s Islamic practice under the ASWJ doctrine. Azmin explained that the amendment aligns with Article 3 of the Federal Constitution, decisions by the Conference of Rulers, and rulings by the National Council for Islamic Religious Affairs (MKI).

The amendment also establishes a new constitutional framework elevating the status of Selangor’s Syariah Courts into a distinct state judicial branch, ensuring it is no longer viewed merely as an administrative body created under religious regulations. Under the new framework, the system formally incorporates the Syariah Principal Court alongside the Syariah Court of Appeal, Syariah High Court, and Syariah Lower Court.

Azmin highlighted that the constitutional amendment secured a two-thirds majority vote in the State Assembly, drawing bipartisan support that included non-Muslim assemblymen.

“This proves that defining the Ahli Sunnah Wal Jamaah doctrine in the Selangor State Constitution does not prejudice the rights or position of followers of other religions as guaranteed under the Federal Constitution,” Azmin said.

Addressing the broader legislative package, Azmin affirmed BERSATU’s support for the Syariah Courts (State of Selangor) Enactment 2026 Bill and the Administration of the Religion of Islam (State of Selangor) (Amendment) Enactment 2026 Bill, describing them as vital structural reforms to modernize Islamic legal administration and strengthen judicial independence.

He commended the Selangor Islamic Religious Council (MAIS) and the Selangor Syariah Judiciary Department for carrying out engagement sessions with legal experts and stakeholders prior to tabling the bills.

Azmin concluded by reiterating the commitment of Selangor BERSATU assemblymen to upholding the Federal Constitution and pledging allegiance to the Sultan of Selangor as the Head of Islam in the state.

–NMT