Use of ‘Allah’ only for Muslims in Kedah, says state Ruler

Kedah’s Sultan Sallehuddin Sultan Badlishah.

ALOR SETAR: Kedah’s Sultan Sallehuddin Sultan Badlishah has decreed that the word “Allah” can only be used by Muslims in the state.

According to Sinar Harian, Sultan Sallehuddin said non-Muslims are not allowed to use the word except for purposes that are not associated with God.

“The word ‘Allah’ is a special name for the one true God.

“Allah names himself by this name and this Allah is only worshiped by Muslims only,” he said in a statement on Wednesday (May 12).

He concluded this firm recommendation based on the order of Allah in Surah Taha verse 14, Section (9) of the Non–Islamic Religions (Control of Propagation Among Muslims) Enactment 1988 and the results of the special meeting of the Fatwa committee gazetted on April 21 last year.

He said as the head of the Islamic religion of Kedah, all parties are reminded to abide by and obey his command in order to preserve the sanctity of the word ‘Allah’ and public order.

Sinar Harian also reported that Sultan Sallehuddin said believing in God, which is the first pillar of faith, is the root of faith for Muslims.

He added that Islam prioritises harmony in the diversity of faiths but is strict and should not encroach on religious boundaries in the issue of faith or belief.

He also called on all Kedahans to immediately stop debating the sanctity of the word “Allah” as it had been codified according to Islamic laws currently in force in the state.

Sultan Sallehuddin said the decree was to ensure the continuity of universal harmony, regardless of religion and race of every layer of people of Kedah.

“Keep in mind if this issue is not addressed carefully, I am deeply concerned that in the end, the people will be caught up in endless strife of tongues and enmity and may eventually jeopardise the harmony and stability of the state and country,” he said.