Kuala lumpur: The Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) is set to probe claims circulating on social media regarding the usage of a Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) reference number as proof of recognition for a marriage declaration letter issued by the Malaysia Rohingya Ulama Council. Minister Dr Zulkifli Hasan stated that he has yet to receive complete information on the issue.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr Zulkifli mentioned, "We will investigate. I have not received the details regarding the matter yet," during the second Malaysian Syariah Prosecutors Conference (PePSSM) 2026. The marriage declaration letter, allegedly issued by the Malaysia Rohingya Ulama Council, went viral on social media, featuring the reference number 'JAKIM.PERH/LN.800-7(5)', which raised concerns about its association with JAKIM.
Media reports highlighted that the Perak Islamic Religious Department (JAIPk) does not recognize the letter as a valid document. The department also noted that marriages involving the Rohingya community could not be registered due to policy issues currently under review by state religious authorities.
In another development, Dr Zulkifli addressed the issue of religious lectures being conducted without accreditation on social media platforms. He stated that the matter is under review, though it falls under the jurisdiction of state governments responsible for regulating religious teaching accreditation.
He further mentioned that the government is exploring the best approach to handle the matter, taking legal considerations into account. At the department level, efforts are made to ensure that individuals invited to appear on air and other platforms possess proper accreditation.
During his speech, Dr Zulkifli emphasized the government's commitment to improving Syariah laws to tackle emerging challenges, particularly cyber-related crimes. He stressed the importance of strengthening cooperation with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), police (PDRM), and the Attorney General's Chambers for effective Syariah enforcement and prosecution.
Dr Zulkifli also urged Syariah prosecutors to enhance their capabilities in digital forensics, data analysis, and technology to be prepared for increasingly complex crimes.