THE OFFENCE OF INSULTING THE QUR’AN UNDER ISLAMIC AND MALAYSIAN LAW

Abstract

The Qur’an, as the divine revelation and ultimate source of guidance for Muslims, holds an unparalleled position of sanctity and reverence in Islamic thought. Any act that desecrates or insults the Qur’an constitutes a profound violation of Islamic faith and moral consciousness. In the modern era, however, such reverence faces serious challenges through acts of desecration, including the burning or defamation of the Qur’an, which have sparked global outrage among Muslim communities. This article examines the offence of insulting the Qur’an from both Islamic and Malaysian legal perspectives. It analyses classical and contemporary scholarly opinions on the gravity of such acts in Islamic jurisprudence (fiqh), as well as relevant legal provisions under Syariah Criminal Offences Enactments and other applicable Malaysian statutes. Employing a doctrinal legal research methodology, this study gathers and analyses primary and secondary legal materials—such as statutory provisions, case law, and scholarly writings—pertaining to the protection of the sanctity of Islam and its institutions. The findings highlight that both Muslims and non-Muslims must recognize the seriousness and legal implications of insulting the Qur’an, as such acts threaten not only religious harmony but also public order. The study contributes to the growing body of legal discourse on religious offence regulation in Malaysia, providing insights that may support legislative refinement and the promotion of mutual respect across communities.