Mahfodz said while some criticised the decision, there were also many who applauded the punishment upon further understanding. — Picture By Yusof Mat Isa

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 13 — Dewan Ulama chief Datuk Dr Mahfodz Mohamed today said the controversial caning of two lesbians in Terengganu Shariah Court can be viewed as ‘free marketing’ as to what Islamic administration entails.

In his opening speech at the 57th Muktamar Dewan Ulama PAS this morning, Dr Mahfodz said while some criticised the decision, there were also many who applauded the punishment upon further understanding.

“The caning in Terengganu was an eye-opener to some, who learned some valuable lessons on the beauty of Islam. Of course, some were against it and even questioned the punishment but our duty is to give the best explanation from a religious viewpoint.

“Not everyone is against it. Therefore, this can be viewed as a free marketing. Especially since it was conducted in Terengganu but it managed to get the whole nation talking,” he said in a live telecast of the event from the Permai Hotel in Kuala Terengganu today.

On September 3, the two women found guilty for attempted lesbian sex were caned six times in public at the Terengganu Shariah Court.

The punishment was widely criticised including by Prime Minister Dr Tun Mahathir Mohamad.

PAS president Datuk Seri Abdul Hadi Awang, among other party leaders and state muftis, responded by insisting that Islamic caning is not meant to torture but to educate the offenders.

Dr Mahfodz, in his keynote address, also stressed that PAS will continue to put religion on the forefront of its fights.

“PAS has been consistent with our stance that Islam is of utmost priority. Only with Islam and the implementation of Shariah laws will God grace us with His blessings,” he said.

The Ulama convention this morning is the start of the four-day muktamar in Terengganu. The PAS Youth wing will also convene later today at the Duyong Marina and Resort in Pulau Duyong.