MUI Condemns Women for Stepping on Al-Qur'an in Lebak, Banten, Demands Severe Punishment

The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) has called on law enforcement to deliver a deterrent effect to two women who stepped on the Al-Qur’an in Malingping Subdistrict, Lebak Regency, Banten. The act involved stepping on the Al-Qur’an to prove there was no theft of cosmetics accused by NL (23), the owner of the salon where the perpetrators worked. The oath incident took place inside NL’s salon on Wednesday (8/4) around 21:30 WIB. “We hope that law enforcement can impose a heavy punishment, a commensurate punishment for what they have done, which amounts to religious blasphemy and desecration of a religious symbol,” said Deputy Secretary of MUI Banten, Endang Saeful Anwar, on Wednesday (14/4). MUI has strongly condemned the tragedy of religious desecration involving an oath by stepping on the Al-Qur’an, the holy book of Muslims. MUI stated that oaths can be performed in other ways, such as placing the Al-Qur’an on the head, as done in court proceedings or official oaths. “We deeply regret that there are members of society who do not respect their holy book, the Al-Qur’an. MUI has issued a statement of position, condemning and denouncing this action,” he explained. The Al-Qur’an is the holy book of Muslims as a guide in practising religion and living life. It should not be treated by being stepped on, especially by Muslims. “Because this action certainly wounds the sanctity and sacredness of the Al-Qur’an, which should serve as our guide,” he clarified. The case began when NL felt that makeup tools she bought via e-commerce were missing. NL suspected MT of taking the makeup items, namely powder and perfume. “So they are actually friends; the salon owner ordered the package and it was stored there. The owner accused the initial MT, and since not satisfied with the confession, they performed the Al-Qur’an oath,” said the Head of Public Relations of Lebak Police, Iptu Moestafa Ibnu Syafir. The two women were secured to prevent any unwanted incidents after the video of the oath while stepping on the Al-Qur’an went viral on social media. “We secured both parties as quickly as possible to avoid unwanted matters,” said Moestafa. The police advised the public not to be provoked regarding this case. In investigating the case, the police will proceed transparently and professionally. Meanwhile, the Head of Public Relations of Banten Police, Commissioner Pol Maruli Hutapea, said that the two women in Lebak have expressed apologies for their actions. “The suspects admitted (their mistake) and apologised,” said Maruli to reporters on Tuesday (14/4).