Man Publicly Flogged in Mosque for Being Alone with Woman Not His Wife

Man Publicly Flogged in Mosque for Being Alone with Unrelated Woman

In a rare public punishment, a 42-year-old Malaysian man was caned inside a mosque in Terengganu state on December 27, 2024, after being convicted of “khalwat,” the Islamic offense of being in close proximity with a non-family member of the opposite sex.

The man, identified as Mohd Affendi Awang, a construction worker and father of five, received six strokes of the cane and a fine after pleading guilty last month.

This marks his third conviction for the same offense. The caning took place at a mosque following Friday prayers, witnessed by approximately 90 people under strong police presence.

Terengganu, governed by the Parti Islam Se-Malaysia (PAS), enforces strict interpretations of Islamic law. PAS Deputy President Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man stated that such punishments aim to educate the public in accordance with Islamic commands.

However, the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia criticized the punishment, arguing it undermines human rights, dignity, and the rule of law, and raises questions about its legality under the Federal Constitution and federal law.

This incident has sparked a debate between those who support strict enforcement of Islamic laws and human rights advocates who oppose such corporal punishments. The public nature of the caning, conducted inside a mosque, has drawn particular attention and concern.

The case highlights the ongoing tension in Malaysia between traditional religious practices and modern human rights standards. As the country continues to navigate these complex issues, the international community watches closely, raising questions about the balance between cultural practices and universal human rights.