Guidelines for Inviting Foreign Imams for Tarawih Prayers in Perak
Accreditation Required for Foreign Imams
Mosques and suraus in Perak intending to invite foreign imams for Tarawih prayers during Ramadan must apply for accreditation, said Perak Islamic Religion and Malay Customs Council (MAIPk) president Tan Sri Mohd Annuar Zaini. According to him, foreign imams invited, including those from Saudi Arabia, must first obtain accreditation approval from the Sultan of Perak, Sultan Nazrin Shah.
Prioritizing Local Imams
"Much like how we prioritise local goods; we have many tahfiz students, yet during Ramadan, we bring in foreign imams," Annuar said at a press conference on the announcement of Perak’s zakat fitrah rate for 1446H/2025M and the launch of the MAIPk Bestari application. He emphasized that mosques and suraus are strongly encouraged to prioritize local imams.
Comparison with Other States
It is worth noting that mosques and suraus in Terengganu are prohibited from using the services of foreign imams for Tarawih prayers and are encouraged to use local tahfiz students instead. Similarly, Selangor has maintained its ban on foreign imams leading Tarawih prayers.
No Specific Number of Rak’ah for Tarawih Prayers
Meanwhile, Annuar said that Perak does not impose any specific number of rak’ah for Tarawih prayers. Previously, it was reported that Pahang had set a ruling for 20 rak’ah to be performed for Tarawih prayers during the upcoming Ramadan month.
Conclusion
In conclusion, mosques and suraus in Perak must apply for accreditation to invite foreign imams for Tarawih prayers, and are encouraged to prioritize local imams. This move is in line with the guidelines set by other states, including Terengganu and Selangor, which prioritize the use of local tahfiz students.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the accreditation process for foreign imams in Perak?
Foreign imams must apply for accreditation and obtain approval from the Sultan of Perak, Sultan Nazrin Shah. - Can mosques and suraus in Perak use foreign imams for Tarawih prayers?
Yes, but they must apply for accreditation and prioritize local imams. - Are there any specific guidelines for the number of rak’ah for Tarawih prayers in Perak?
No, Perak does not impose any specific number of rak’ah for Tarawih prayers.