Spot checks for Ramadan violations in Tawau

TAWAU: The Sabah Islamic Religious Affairs Department (JHEAINS) will inspect eateries here to ensure there is no improper behavior by Muslims during the fasting month of Ramadan.

District JHEAINS administrative officer Abdul Imam Basirun said the spot checks would also cover lottery and other gambling premises.

Abdul Imam said it is hoped that Muslims will not tarnish the holy month by misbehaving.

He said the department was taking serious steps in carrying out enforcement and would not hesitate to take action against individuals and prosecute them at the Syariah Court on the same day.

Ramadan violators can be arrested and charged under Section 58 (1) (2) of the Sabah State Syariah Criminal Offences 1995, he said yesterday, adding that individuals found guilty could be fined up to RM1,000 or faced imprisonment for six months, or both.

He said that for a second offence, the penalty was more severe and offender would be fined RM2,000 or face imprisonment not exceeding one year, or both.

Abdul Imam also advised food and drink operators not to allow Muslims to eat and drink at their premises as they are only allowed to pack the food and drinks.

Legal action can be taken against operators if found to have violated the regulation.

He also warned Muslims not to gamble at number forecast premises as they could be charged under Section 90 of the Sabah State Syariah Criminal Offences, which provides for imprisonment not exceeding six months and a RM3,000 fine.

He said the behaviour of Muslims buying lottery numbers was shameful and would be penalized for not respecting the sanctity of the month of Ramadan.

Abdul Imam added that JHEAINS was distributing and putting up posters relating to Ramadan around the town center as an initiative to raise awareness and encourage Muslims to respect the fasting month.