MUI Allows Congregational Prayers In Mosques By Applying Strict Health Protocols

Head of MUI for Fatwa Asrorun Niam/Photo: Antara

JAKARTA - The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) still allows congregational prayers in mosques despite a spike in COVID-19 cases, with a note that they continue to increase vigilance and discipline in implementing strict health protocols. Thus, socio-religious activities carried out in congregation can be carried out as usual," said Chairman of the MUI for Fatwa Asrorun Niam in a Youtube broadcast that was followed from Jakarta, Monday, February 7. Muslims not to perform Friday prayers and replace them with Dzuhur prayers. Kiai Niam said the increase in COVID-19 cases must be a common concern. However, he said, the portion regarding strict restrictions on social activities is the domain of the government. "And congregational-based religious activities are also an inseparable part of public policy. Will the government still be able to control it or not," he said. As a congregation it can still be done, Asrorun Niam emphasized that it must be carried out with strict health protocols. "For further developments, of course we will follow the dynamics and also the development of the portion taken by the government," he added. Meanwhile, Deputy General Chairperson of MUI Anwar Abbas invites the public to strengthen health protocols to prevent transmission of Omicron, which is currently high in distribution in Indonesia. .Anwar said based on According to experts, the Omicron variant can spread faster than the previous variant. Even a number of countries have felt the impact of this new variant with a spike in the daily number of positive COVID-19 cases. Therefore, an easy and inexpensive way to avoid the transmission of COVID-19 is to be disciplined in implementing health protocols such as wearing masks when leaving the house, washing regularly. "Experts and the government always remind and encourage people to always wear masks, keep a distance, wash their hands, reduce mobility and avoid crowds," he said. public spaces to follow instructions from the government and continue to monitor the development of transmission to be used as a reference in implementing policies.