SHAH ALAM, Jan 8 — The transfer of graves at the Selat Klang Muslim Burial Ground, to make way for the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL), was done according to fatwa, syarak, and strict standard operating procedure (SOP).
State executive councillor for Islam and innovation Dr Fahmi Ngah said the process was according to fatwa issued by the Selangor State Mufti Department and procedure enforced by the Selangor Islamic Religious Council (Jais), and was aimed at benefiting the people.
“Based on the Imam Syafie’s teachings (Islamic legal school of thought), graves cannot be transferred within the first four years, but this is permitted when it is for the benefit of the people, such as to build roads and rail lines.
“Following Jais’ SOP, the DNA and bones in each grave cannot be mixed with others.
“Also, appointed contractors would not transfer the graves in poor weather, especially rain, as it makes this work difficult,” he said when contacted.
With regard to complaints from next of kin that they were not given notice on the exhumation and transfer of the graves, Fahmi stressed that the work was done according to strict SOP so as to not dishonour any of the deceased or their families.
“The transfer was done to benefit the public. It was also guided by syarak rules, and was done after the state Mufti Department considered various aspects.
“There has been no issue with the developer or construction of the development,” he said.
On Monday, Sinar Harian reported complaints from next of kin who said they were not given notice that the 90 graves involved were going to be exhumed.
They claimed local authorities did not respond to their questions, and that there was no vote held on whether to move the graves.
Last year, residents voiced their objections in a three-page letter after 90 graves were moved to make way for the ECRL project.
They demanded that at least one next of kin be allowed to observe the grave transfer process.
