License curbs for 'fake' preachers

The proliferation of unlicensed religious preachers actively disseminating content on social media requires a more comprehensive approach than solely relying on legal enforcement, according to Dr. Redwan Yasin, Director of the Islamic Center at the National Defense University of Malaysia (UPNM).

Dr. Redwan highlighted the difficulty authorities face in regulating online preaching activities, which operate across digital platforms without borders. He noted that while teaching licenses are state-specific under the Federal Constitution, individuals without a license in one state can still preach online to a nationwide audience. The key challenge lies in determining if the content constitutes an offense under relevant state enactments, considering factors like the location of the offense and court jurisdiction.

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Individuals who do not have a license in a particular state can still preach online, which can be accessed by the public nationwide.

To address this, Dr. Redwan proposed establishing a national coordination mechanism through existing institutions like the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim) and the State Islamic Religious Councils. This mechanism would develop shared guidelines, ethical standards for digital preaching, and a unified licensing database. "The need is more for coordination, not to take over state powers. This approach respects state autonomy while enhancing uniformity in tackling the challenges of digital preaching," he explained.

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The need is more for coordination, not to take over state powers. This approach respects state autonomy while enhancing uniformity in tackling the challenges of digital preaching.

He warned of the risks, including the potential erosion of academic authority and a decline in public trust in the authenticity of religious teachings, leading to legal confusion. However, he stressed that not all unlicensed individuals spread false doctrines; content is only deemed deviant after evaluating its factual accuracy, Islamic jurisprudence, and relevant legal provisions.

Professor Madya Dr. Khalif Muammar A. Harris, an expert in Islamic Thought and Ethics at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), echoed this sentiment. He argued that the issue of unqualified preachers spreading deviant teachings should not be viewed solely as a licensing matter. "The government and society need to realize we are facing a more serious problem. Strengthening the law is not everything," he stated, suggesting instead the empowerment of da'wah bodies, enhancement of knowledge and delivery skills among religious teachers, and support for credible academic institutions.

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The government and society need to realize we are facing a more serious problem. Strengthening the law is not everything.