Zulkifli: COVID-19 patients don’t need to attend Friday prayers
PUTRAJAYA: Religious Affairs Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (JPM) Datuk Seri Dr Zulkifli Mohamad Al-Bakri said Friday prayers need not suspended for now as the current COVID-19 situation in the country is still under control.
However, Zulkifli said the Friday congregational prayers, which are obligatory for all Muslim males, should proceed with some adjustments, such as by shortening the sermon session.
“Members of the congregation are also advised to make ablutions at home and wear facemasks, while the mosque committee must provide hand sanitisers as part of preventive measures.
“People with COVID-19 symptoms don’t need to attend Friday prayers as they are categorised as sick,” he said, in a statement today.
In case the pandemic becomes out of control, Zulkifli said Friday prayers should be cancelled and replaced by Zohor prayers, at the comfort of their own homes.
The former Federal Territories Mufti said that any other decisions would be subject to direction issued by relevant authorities, such as the Health Ministry.
To avoid any confusion, Zulkifli said guidelines on the matter would be issued by Prime Minister’s Office soon.
By Irman Hashim
