The Malacca government has denied claims that state Islamic Religious Affairs Department (Jaim) Enforcement Division principal assistant director Rahimin Bani’s contract was terminated with immediate effect in relation to independent preacher Wan Ji Wan Hussin. 

Rahimin had proposed that the state government not give permission to independent preacher Wan Ji Wan Hussin to speak at a mosque in Kampung Parit Melana, Durian Tunggal.

Malacca Chief Minister Adly Zahari said Rahimin is still serving Jaim, and his contract would end on Aug 31.

He added that Rahimin's contract had ended in December last year, but was renewed for a year.

“However, the duration of the contract has been shortened to Aug 31 to give way to new faces once a suitable candidate has been identified.

“So far there are four candidates identified for the post and priority will be given to Jaim and the Malacca Islamic Religious Council (Maim) staff,” he told reporters after attending a programme at Seri Bendahara Ayer Keroh today.

The chief minister said that restructuring was normal in every government department and it happened all the time.

Rahimin, when contacted, confirmed his contract expires on Aug 31.

- Bernama