KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 15 — Federal Territories Mufti Datuk Zulkifli Mohamad al-Bakri has declared it “haram (forbidden)” for Malaysian Muslims to spoil their votes or not vote in the general election.
In a statement on the mufti’s official website issued recently, Zulkifli said voting is a mandatory duty for Muslims, according to the spirit of the constitution and law.
“We are inclined to say that it is haram to spoil your votes. Not voting and not registering as a voter is also equally haram,” he said.
Zulkifli was responding to the growing campaign for voters to intentionally spoil their ballots for the 14th general election.
The movement is gaining traction, especially among youths who claimed to be disillusioned with the choices offered by both Barisan Nasional and Pakatan Harapan.
Zulkifli stressed that choosing a leader is crucial for the harmony of Muslims and Islam, and given the importance of the process, individuals must not spoil their votes.
“The orders given by a leader is Islam must be abided by,” he said, adding that a leader is also crucial to unite Muslims in the country.
The 14th general elections must be called by June 24, but the prime minister may declare one before then.
