CORONAVIRUS | The solat jenazah (funeral prayers) for non-Covid-19 deaths during the movement control order (MCO) can only be performed at home or private premises and attended by mosque officials and immediate family members.

Perak Islamic Religious Department (Jaipk) director Mohd Yusof Yahya said funeral arrangements should also involve a minimum number of immediate family members and no gatherings for tahlil recital should be held throughout the MCO period, which has been extended until April 14.

He said in the event of death in the hospital, the funeral rites should be carried out at the premises, but if the death occurred at home, the family should seek the advice of the healthcare provider whether the procedure should be done either at the hospital or at home.

“Family members who manage the funeral rites should use face mask, apron and gloves in addition to avoiding any contact with water used (to bathe the deceased).

“Jaipk takes the COVID-19 threat seriously and is committed to preventing the spread and infection on a larger scale,” he said in a statement today.

He said family members should avoid touching, hugging or kissing the deceased.

The remains should be dealt with as soon as possible and the funeral prayers should also be brief.

“All mosque officials and congregation members are required to obey this order until further notice,” he said.