The Chemistry Department is prepared to test the indelible ink slated to be used in the next general election for any ingredients that are prohibited in Islam.

Director-general Ahmad Ridzuan Ibrahim said, however, that his department has yet to receive any directive to do so.

“So far, we still do not have any official instruction but if so required, we will meet the request. We have the ability to carry out the work,” he said when contacted.

azlanHe said the department has been tasked only with testing whether the ink is truly indelible as claimed by its supplier.

He expects to receive samples from the Election  Commission (EC) soon.

Ahmad Ridzuan was responding to a statement by EC deputy chairperson Wan Ahmad Wan Omar today that the commission would send ink samples to the Chemistry Department to test for any prohibited material.

The test results will be sent to the Islamic Development Department and the National Fatwa Council for feedback.

Their comments will then be reported to the parliamentary select committee on electoral reform, said Wan Ahmad.

Earlier decree

The Fatwa Council had, at a special session in August 2007, decided that the use of indelible ink is permissible in Islam as the ink does not contain najis (prohibited substances).
       
Its fatwa (decree) states that the ink will not pose problems for Muslims performing ablutions before prayers, as it does not prevent water from reaching the skin.

“As the indelible ink is water permeable and its contents are devoid of animal fat, its use will not create any concerns under Islamic law,” reads the fatwa posted on the council’s website.

The fatwa further states that the ethanol alcohol in the ink is not a factor as it will evaporate once the container is opened and will not nullify the ability of Muslims to say their prayers.


Related stories

EC set to use indelible ink for GE13

Nazri: Indelible ink to ensure transparent GE

Umno, BN have no problem with indelible ink