THE importance of Islamic Syariah in protecting the dignity of women was highlighted in a premier talk that was graced by Her Majesty Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha and other members of the royal family on the second day of the 2013 Knowledge Convention at the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Berakas yesterday.

Also present at the talk were HRH Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah, HRH Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Zariah, HRH Princess Hajah Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah and HRH Princess Hajah Majeedah Nuurul Bolkiah.

The essence of the talk entitled “Syariah Criminal Law Ensures Women’s & Community’s Mashlahat”, according to Professor Dr Najibah binti Mohd Zain, the Deputy Dean (Academic) of Universiti Islam Antarabangsa Malaysia, is reflected in Surah An-Nuur, one of the important verses of the Al-Quran, which discusses Islamic laws in protecting the dignity of women (such as wives) from accusations or matters related with zina (adultery).

The expert also emphasised that accusing one of zina and spying on them were forbidden by Allah the Almighty, as in doing it so, would degrade the dignity of a woman, especially if she is accused of committing adultery.

According to her, human values are embedded in all aspects of the law in Islam.

Especially when dealing with issues involving adultery among females, as far as legal aspects are concerned, it is important to note that one should not “go beyond the limits that has been set by Allah the Almighty”, she said, adding that Syariah law serves to protect the interest of the Ummah, to eliminate hardships and to provide benefits to society as a whole.

“To further deliberate on the protection of (women’s) dignity, there should be a regulation of laws governing families (including the prevention of adultery), responsibilities and rights between spouses, as well as establishing paternity and property rights,” she concluded. - Borneo Bulletin (24 October 2013)