Perlis Mufti criticised the recent arrests

PETALING JAYA: Perlis Mufti Dr Asri Zainul Abidin has criticised the recent arrests under the Internal Security Act (ISA).

Saying that Islam did not need the ISA to defend itself, he added that the Quran or the Hadis should be used as a guide to investigate if a person was accused of insulting Islam.

“The authorities should have provided religious evidence to argue against the accused.

“Detaining someone under the ISA for committing religious offences will not stop misunderstandings about Islam.

“Disallowing a person the opportunity to defend himself is wrong,” he told Mstar Online on Monday.

Dr Asri said Jakim should play a more active role by giving more explanation on religious issues.

“Jakim should also explain on the issue of offences said to be committed by Malaysia Today portal editor Raja Petra Kamaruddin against Islam,” he added.