Surau Kampung Seri Keramat: MAIPk Clarification, Facts, and Harmonious Resolution
The issue regarding the construction of a surau in Kampung Seri Keramat, Pasir Puteh arose when a building used for worship was built on private land. The building was constructed without official application to the Perak Islamic Religious and Malay Customs Council (MAIPk), and without the approval of state religious authorities.
According to the Administration of the Religion of Islam (Perak) Enactment 2004, all suraus or mosques intended for construction must be located on waqf land legally registered under the name of MAIPk. In this case, investigations found that the site was never endowed (waqf), not registered as waqf property, and its construction was legally unauthorized.
This situation sparked concern among authorities because it not only violated the provisions of the enactment but also compromised the integrity of the waqf administration system in the state of Perak.
Fatwa Decision and Relocation Steps
To address this issue legally and harmoniously, the Perak State Fatwa Committee met from September 30 to October 1, 2020. The decision was clear: the surau had to be relocated because it was built on land that was not legally waqf.
This step is in line with Shariah requirements and state legislation, which emphasize that the construction of Muslim places of worship must comply with valid waqf conditions. If left unchecked, such actions could set a bad precedent and weaken the structure of religious law and administration.
This decision was not intended to deny the local community's need for worship, but to ensure that every place of worship is built on a legal, orderly foundation that does not trigger future disputes.
Provision of New Waqf Site by the Government
As a proactive measure, the Perak State Government allocated a new site that has been legally endowed (waqf) under the name of MAIPk, approximately 250 meters from the original surau location. This site was selected with full consideration to ensure it does not affect the welfare and convenience of the residents.
Interestingly, the developer also took full responsibility by covering all construction costs for the new surau. This reflects a spirit of cooperation in resolving this issue amicably without burdening the local community.
Now, the replacement surau building is fully completed and ready to be used by the community in Kampung Seri Keramat. All construction was carried out with valid approval and in compliance with legal requirements and Shariah principles.
Status of the Old Surau, New Surau, and Future Mosque Site
The original Al-Karamah surau (marked A) is located on the edge of the main road and was identified for demolition after the replacement surau was completed. It was not built on waqf land and was located in an area that was not legally recognized by the state religious administration.
As a replacement, a new surau (marked B) was built and fully completed on February 17, 2024. This surau is now fully utilized by residents around Kampung Seri Keramat. The construction was carried out according to the instructions of the Sultan of Perak and the guidelines of the Perak Islamic Religious and Malay Customs Council (MAIPk), on land legally endowed under the name of MAIPk.
Additionally, another location (marked C) has been identified as the site for the construction of a new, larger mosque for long-term use. This site was provided by the developer and is located approximately 400 meters from the old surau location. It has not yet been built but is planned as part of long-term development to accommodate population growth in the area.
Surau Committee and New Administration
On January 2, 2024, MAIPk appointed a legitimate Surau Committee to manage the administration and activities at the new surau. This committee is responsible for ensuring the surau operates according to religious and state regulations and guidelines.
This appointment is crucial to ensure transparency and order in the surau's administration, while ensuring all religious activities are carried out in an organized manner. The new surau is also equipped with better facilities for the convenience of the congregation.
The committee's role also includes ensuring the surau continues to be a center for unity and spiritual development for the Muslim community in the area.
Clarification on Viral Video Without Verified Facts
Recently, a viral video appeared on social media attempting to link this issue to claims that the surau was demolished due to pressure from certain parties. The content of the video has been confirmed to be baseless and has created inaccurate negative perceptions.
MAIPk asserts that no demolition occurred; instead, the relocation of the surau was carried out in an orderly and respectful manner, involving reconstruction on a legal waqf site. Making provocative statements without factual reference only creates confusion among the public.
The public is advised to refer to official sources and not to spread videos or information that could threaten the harmony and unity of the Muslim community.
MAIPk Firm in Protecting Waqf Institutions and Places of Worship
MAIPk wishes to emphasize that all construction of places of worship for Muslims in the State of Perak must comply with legal and Shariah requirements. Construction without permission and without valid waqf status not only violates regulations but also challenges the sanctity of the waqf institution.
Therefore, the authorities will continue to monitor and ensure all suraus and mosques are built on legal land to protect the interests of religion and society. This step is also important to prevent the manipulation of religious sentiment for personal or political gain.
MAIPk's commitment in this matter is clear—to defend the purity of Islamic religious administration in this state so that it always remains within a legal and harmonious framework.
