MOSQUES AS ISLAMIC RELIGIOUS SPACES DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC: A DISCOURSE ON THE MALAYSIAN AND BRUNEIAN EXPERIENCES

Abstract

The mosque is a distinguished institution in Islam. It has been an influential space for worship, religious, economic, social, and educational institutions, as explicated in historical and present day narratives. However, notwithstanding the spread of COVID-19 which involved multiple Movement Control Orders, the authorities have restricted the role of mosques in many countries, including Malaysia and Brunei. This paper aims to examine the changing role of the mosque as a religious space during the COVID-19 pandemic, and how the religious authorities manage the restrictions with linkages to Muslims' religious needs. The researchers specifically examine the role of the mosque during the COVID-19 pandemics and analyse the role of religious authorities in managing religious gatherings in the mosques.  The research adopts a qualitative approach of library research for historical and theological viewpoints, and the analysis of policies and guidelines. The researchers present the analysis through contemporary narrative and classical Islamic teachings. The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about significant transformations in the roles and functions of mosques as places of worship, primarily in response to public health and safety concerns. These adaptations have remained aligned with the fundamental principles of Maqasid al-Shariah and the religious authorities have played a crucial role in effecting these changes.