Can opposing Act 355 amendments violate the Federal Constitution?

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Opposing Act 355 Amendments Could Be Considered a Violation of the Federal Constitution

Non-Muslim Members of Parliament (MPs) who oppose the proposed amendments to Act 355, which aims to increase the powers of the Shariah Courts, may be considered to be violating the federal constitution. This perspective was articulated by Dr Abdul Kadir Warsi, representing Pertubuhan Permuafakatan Ayahanda Malaysia, who stated that any parliamentarian opposing matters linked to Islam, as outlined in the Federal Constitution, has made a significant error and demonstrated a lack of respect for the Constitution.
Stance on Opposition to Act 355

Dr Abdul Kadir Warsi asserted that parliamentarians who oppose matters connected to Islam, as stipulated within the Federal Constitution, are making a grave mistake and failing to uphold constitutional principles. He suggested that such individuals could potentially face charges for not supporting the amendments to Act 355, the Syariah Courts (Criminal Jurisdiction) Act 1965. While he did not provide specific details on how opposing these amendments would directly violate the federal constitution, his statement implies a legal or constitutional transgression.
Details of the Proposed Amendments to Act 355

The amendments to Act 355 are being spearheaded by PAS president Datuk Seri Abdul Hadi Awang. The proposed changes seek to significantly increase the sentencing capabilities of the Shariah Courts. Specifically, the amendments aim to raise the maximum penalties from the current limit of three years' imprisonment, six strokes of the cane, and an RM5,000 fine to a much higher ceiling of 30 years' imprisonment, 100 strokes, and an RM100,000 fine.
Context of the Himpunan 355 Rally

The statements by Dr Abdul Kadir Warsi were made during his speech at the Himpunan 355 rally, an event held to garner support for Datuk Seri Abdul Hadi Awang's Private Members Bill to amend Act 355. Over 10,000 individuals reportedly gathered at Padang Merbok for the rally, which was organised by several Muslim non-governmental organisations and led by PAS. The rally underscored the strong backing for the proposed expansion of Shariah Court powers among the participating groups.

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Can opposing Act 355 amendments violate the Federal Constitution?

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