Melaka: Eight men have been arrested by the Melaka Islamic Religious Department (JAIM) for not fasting and eating in public during inspections at food outlets in the state.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, State Education, Higher Education and Religious Affairs Committee chairman Datuk Rahmad Mariman stated that the common reasons given by the men were ‘not feeling well’ and ‘cannot fast’. These individuals were arrested under Section 49 of the Melaka Syariah Offences Enactment 1991, following operations that commenced at the beginning of Ramadan last week.

Rahmad highlighted that JAIM has conducted eleven operations at 127 eatery premises up until the 7th day of Ramadan, and enforcement efforts will continue throughout the month to ensure respect for the holy month. He made these remarks while leading an operation in Peringgit and Bukit Rambai.

Also in attendance during the operation were JAIM director Datuk Md Azhan Samat and enforcement chief Akmal Nadzim Abdullah.

Rahmad further explained that the offence for not fasting cannot be compounded, and those arrested will be brought to court to face charges. Upon conviction, the individuals could face a fine of not more than RM1,000 or a jail term of up to six months.