The National Fatwa Council has decided that it is "haram" (not permissible) for Muslims to participate in any gathering or demonstration that is unproductive, is against the law or causes disturbance in the country.     

NONEIts chairperson Abdul Shukor Husin said the council viewed seriously this issue as some Muslims had resorted to rioting during street demonstrations as happened in the federal capital on April 28.     

"Rioting, causing disturbances and damaging public property are all forbidden by Islam. This also applies to any intention to topple a duly elected government by organising such demonstrations.      

"No one is exempted, and cannot support any efforts that can cause harm, anxiety or unrest among Muslims to the point of the community becoming split, what more if there is bloodshed," he told reporters after chairing the 99th meeting of the council in Sepang today.     

As such, he said Muslims who participated in such demonstrations must repent because Islam never called on its followers to resort to any action that could threaten people's lives just to pursue a specific agenda.