KOTA BARU: Kelantan witnessed 533 marriages involving underage couples over a four-year period from 2019.
State Islamic Development, Dakwah, Information, and Regional Relations committee chairman Mohd Asri Mat Daud said that only 13 applications were rejected during this period due to several factors.
He mentioned that the legal age for marriage is 18 for males and 16 for females.
"The Kelantan government takes the approach that underage marriages are appropriate as per the provisions of Section 8 of the Kelantan Islamic Family Law Enactment 2002. It is in line with legal provisions and Sharia Law, taking into account the well-being of underage couples intending to get married.
"The Syariah Judges' Meeting has decided to consider a minimum standard operating procedure (SOP) that is more facilitative by the State Syariah Judiciary Department, especially in Kelantan.
"It takes into account the Kelantan locality that borders Thailand, facilitating marriages in Thailand and avoiding unauthorised marriages without the consent of the guardian," he said.
He made these remarks during the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) session while responding to Zameri Mat Nawang's (PAS-Jelawat) questions.
He also mentioned that until today, all applications for permission to marry underage individuals must first obtain approval from the Syariah Court.
"Although Kelantan provides flexibility, we still consider several factors, including the ability, willingness of the couple, and readiness to take on responsibilities.
"If we find that any couple does not meet the set standards, including having psychological issues or failing to give guidance to the wife, their applications will be rejected," he said.
