‘Drop in divorce cases among Muslim couples, but still worrying’
KUCHING: The number of divorce cases among Muslim couples in Sarawak has dropped slightly.
In comparing statistics between last year and 2017, Assistant Minister of Rural Electricity Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi said despite the drop, the big number was still worrying.
“There were 2,122 cases in 2018, a slight decrease from the 2,250 cases in 2017. Out of the 2,122 cases in 2018, as many as 171 couples got back together after counselling,” he spoke during the ‘ Multaqa Pendaftar dan Penolong Pendafter (Jurunikah) Perkahwinan, Penceraian dan Ruju’ at Sarawak Islamic Complex here yesterday, which gathered around 300 participants.
Dr Abdul Rahman, who is the minister-in- charge of Islamic affairs in Sarawak, added that continuous guidance should be given to young Muslim couples.
“This is to avoid divorce cases due to the couples not being ready mentally, especially upon entering the world of marriage. Aside from undergoing pre-marital courses, they can also receive guidance after they get married.
“Usually, young couples still require guidance and advice from their families, the community and relevant agencies. This effort is important to ensure that Muslim couples can lead a good life and not break down the family institution,” said Dr Abdul Rahman, who is Pantai Damai assemblyman.
Meanwhile, Sarawak Islamic Council president Datu Misnu Taha said failing to give ‘nafkah’ ( provision for spouse) was one of the main reasons why divorce cases occurred.
“The second reason is because the husband or wife fails to honour their responsibilities; other reasons include adultery or domestic violence,” he said, adding that a large number of divorce couples are between the ages of 30 and 40.