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KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 18— The PAS-led Himpunan 355 rally is already a packed show, just 30 minutes past the official starting time of 2pm.
Thousands have converged on Padang Merbok to join the Himpunan 355, in support of PAS president Datuk Seri Abdul Hadi Awang’s private member’s Bill which seeks to amend the Syariah Courts (Criminal Jurisdiction) Act 1965 or Act 355.
The amendment is aimed at increasing the Shariah Court’s power to pass sentences.
There is an air of festivity here with a huge number of stalls taking in brisk sales selling drinks, food and Islamic products, with the attendees being entertained with nasyid performances.
The numbers are still increasing and there are currently over 10,000 people in attendance, causing a spillover outside of Padang Merbok.
Minister in the Prime Minister's Department in charge of religious affairs, Datuk Seri Jamil Khir Baharom and Abdul Hadi are scheduled to speak later tonight.
By way of a Private Member’s Bill, Abdul Hadi is seeking to amend Act 355 to raise the ceiling on Shariah punishments from three years’ imprisonment, six strokes of the cane and an RM5,000 fine to 30 years’ imprisonment, 100 strokes, and an RM100,000 fine.
Himpunan 355 organised by several Muslim NGOs and led by PAS today, is to show support to Abdul Hadi and his effort.
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