Johor, Malaysia Enforces Friday Prayer Obligation for Male Muslim Business Owners
By Abdullahi Yusuf
Male Muslim business owners, employees, and customers in Johor are now required to temporarily halt business activities, including restaurant operations, during Friday prayer times. This directive aims to ensure that all Muslim men fulfill their religious obligation to perform Friday prayers.
Johor Islamic Religious Affairs Committee Chairman Mohd Fared Mohd Khalid announced the measure, clarifying that only male Muslims are subject to the rule. “They must not engage in trading, work, or continue dining during prayer time,” he stated. However, exemptions apply to non-Muslims and Muslim women.
The Johor Islamic Religious Department (JAINJ) will enforce the directive, monitoring compliance to ensure attendance at Friday prayers.
The announcement follows the recent unveiling of the Johor Budget 2025 by Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi. As part of the changes, the state government will extend Friday lunch breaks for both public and private sectors to two hours starting January 1, 2025, up from the current 90 minutes.
On the upcoming shift to Saturday-Sunday weekends beginning January 1, Mohd Fared addressed concerns regarding school uniforms for religious classes on Fridays. Parents who find it inconvenient to switch uniforms for their children may have the option to stick with national school attire.
“For us, the priority is students attending school and performing Friday prayers. We are open to suggestions on the matter,” he said.
The initiatives reflect Johor’s commitment to integrating religious practices into daily life while accommodating practical concerns.
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