In a move that looks set to run into controversy, Kelantan Menteri Besar Nik Abdul Aziz Nik Mat today said that only Muslims who perform the obligatory five daily and Friday prayers may be considered to be civil servants in that state.

nik aziz interview in kota bharu 130608 03 According to a Bernama report, Nik Aziz said he would table the motion on this at the state legislative assembly soon.

He said the requirement was similar to the compulsory pass in Bahasa Malaysia in the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) for job placements.

"I will move the motion at the state assembly that those who aspire to be leaders, penghulu, village heads and civil servants must pray five times a day and perform the Friday prayer.

"This will ensure that those selected are morally upright and will refrain from corrupt practices and immoral activities," he said.

He was commenting on an oral question from Demit assemblyman Muhamad Mustafa during the state assembly sitting on the state government's measures to ensure Muslims perform their daily and Friday prayers.

The PAS spiritual leader also described Muslims who did not pray as those with problems in their hearts and weak in character and moral values.

"Prayers are food for the heart. If the heart is not satiated, it will be hungry and can be easily influenced by negative elements.

"Those who do not pray are not scared of God, The Almighty. As they are not scared, they will do anything they want."