KOTA BARU: Efforts to strengthen Syariah laws must take into account the division of powers between the state and federal governments as stipulated in the Federal Constitution.
Kelantan Deputy Menteri Besar Datuk Dr Mohamed Fadzli Hassan said this was necessary to ensure that every provision had a sound legal basis and could be effectively enforced.
He added that the matter required serious attention, taking into account the position of the royal institution, the credibility of religious institutions and the state's legal framework.
He said state legislative bodies had specific powers to enact laws relating to Islamic affairs, but these were subject to constitutional limits and prevailing laws.
"Syariah authority must be strengthened through sound legislation, strong institutions and meticulous implementation.
"Every provision enacted must have a proper legal basis, a clear scope of jurisdiction and the capacity to be implemented effectively," he said at the opening of the state-level Syariah and Legal Conference here today.
Fadzli said the approach should continue to receive serious consideration to ensure that efforts to uphold Syariah were carried out in a more structured manner, grounded in knowledge and supported by a strong legal framework.
He said the state government remained committed to improving the Syariah legal system to ensure it remained relevant, credible and responsive to current needs.
"Among these efforts is the enactment of the Syariah Criminal Offences (Kelantan) Bill 2026, which was passed by the Kelantan State Legislative Assembly on Aug 12," he said.
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