W. Sumatra mulls sharia implementation

W. Sumatra mulls sharia implementation

PADANG, West Sumatra: Following the implementation of Islamic
law, or sharia, in Aceh province, some officials have suggested
that West Sumatra province also adopt a similar law.

However, a number of community leaders called for intensive
study before implementing sharia across the province.

Chairman of Minang Concern Society (MPM) Rusdi R. Latif said
Monday that it was not easy to implement Islamic law.

According to Rusdi, it may be feasible to implement sharia
gradually, such as ordering everyone to wear traditional Islamic
attire and requiring all to live in accordance with Islamic
values.

He added that there had to be preparations before sharia could
be implemented.

In the meantime, chairman of West Sumatra Council of Ulemas
(MUI) Mansur Malik emphasized Monday that the implementation of
sharia in the province was still only on the level of discussion.

"As we speak today, there have been no serious preparations
for its implementation," he said. - Antara