Penang Mosque Calls For Calm After Video Of Woman Disrespecting Congregation Goes Viral
The woman had complained about the voices of the muezzin and imam, claiming that the azan was disturbing her sleep.
By Sadho Ram — 18 Mar 2024, 11:52 AM
Earlier this month, an incident at Masjid Jamek Ar-Rahman in Batu Ferringhi, where a woman entered the men's prayer area, went viral
During the incident, it was reported that the woman allegedly made disrespectful comments about the voices of the muezzin and imam, likening them to "barking dogs" and "discordant devils".
Video footage of the 12 March incident has since gone viral on social media, prompting Masjid Jamek Ar-Rahman committee chairperson Ismail Din to lodge a police report, reported Berita Harian.
Responding to concerns raised online, Ismail has called for calm as the police handle the issue.
"I hope the public will not take matters into their own hands regarding the incident that occurred at this mosque a few days ago. A police report has been lodged, and the woman's relatives have also contacted us. So, we are leaving this matter to the police for further action," the New Straits Times quoted him as saying.
Ismail also shared that this was not the first instance that the woman had made such claims, but as the video had gone viral, they decided to lodge a police report to prevent similar incidents from happening
According to Ismail, the woman had previously sent a letter to the mosque management, claiming that the azan was disturbing her sleep.
The management then ensured the loudspeakers did not disturb the neighbourhood.
The woman's sister has since reached out to the mosque
She claimed that her sister has been dealing with mental health issues after returning from abroad.
"The woman claimed that her sister used to be devout and often sponsored individuals to perform the umrah. She then settled in London before experiencing mental health issues upon returning home," Ismail said.
He also stressed that efforts are being made to address the situation through dialogue.
"We plan to hold a meeting so she can apologise and reconcile with both sides. We understand that she is 'unwell' and do not want it to escalate, so let the authorities handle this matter," he added.
Meanwhile, Northeast police chief ACP Razlam Ab Hamid has confirmed receiving the report and stated that an investigation is ongoing under Section 298A of the Penal Code.
