Exco Hasan Ali summoned by Sultan of Selangor

(The Star) – Selangor state executive councillor Datuk Dr Hasan Ali was summoned by Sultan of Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah believed to be for not consulting him on allowing mosque officials to nab Muslims who consume alcohol.

He was seen entering Istana Bukit Kayangan here at about 11.50am and left about 2.25pm.

He drove past all reporters who were waiting for him outside the palace without stopping to say what transpired in the meeting.

In late August, Dr Hasan, who is also state PAS commissioner and exco in charge of Muslim Affairs, Malay Customs, Infrastructure and Public Amenities had announced that all mosque officials could arrest Muslims caught drinking alcohol in public places.

He had said the action was provided for under the Selangor Syariah Criminal Enactment.

Dr Hasan also said that Muslims can be fined up to RM3,000 or jailed up to two years or both, for drinking in public, whereas Muslims who make, sell, offer, display or possess any alcoholic drink can be fined up to RM5,000 or jailed up to three years or both.

Efforts to call Dr Hasan to get information on the audience with the sultan, were unsuccessful.

The public relations officer at the Mentri Besar’s office told reporters that Mentri Besar Tan Sri Khalid Ibrahim is not going to issue any statement regarding the meeting.

Later, Datuk Mohamad Munir Bani, the private secretary to the sultan said the meeting between Dr Hasan and the sultan was to discuss on daily issues.

When asked if they discussed on the relocation of the temple, he just laughed it off without giving a clear answer.