JOHOR BAHRU: The Johor police will disallow public talks by Muslim preacher Dr Zakir Naik in the state so as to prevent controversy that can undermine harmony, Johor Police chief Datuk Mohd Kamarudin Md Din said yesterday.
He said the police have received 244 reports against the preacher. Zakir, who is from India, is a permanent resident in Malaysia.
Mohd Kamarudin also said that the police will provide security advice to the Johor Islamic Affairs Department (JAINJ) which has the final say on programmes involving Zakir.
“We do not want any element that can undermine racial and religious harmony,” he said when asked whether the Johor police will emulate their Melaka counterparts in prohibiting public talks by Zakir.
Mohd Kamarudin was approached after the monthly assembly of the Johor police and his handing over of duties as Johor police deputy chief to his successor Datuk Shafie Ismail.
In Kota Bharu, the Kelantan police also said they will not issue permits for events where Muslim preacher Dr Zakir Naik is to give a talk.
Kelantan police deputy chief SAC Abdullah Mohamad Piah said yesterday the decision was made for security reasons,
Zakir, however, is free to visit Kelantan and travel anywhere in the state, he added. – Bernama
