KUALA LUMPUR, June 29 -- Religious Affairs Minister Datuk Mohd Na'im Mokhtar has expressed disappointment over a viral incident involving a male worshipper who was removed from a surau in Teluk Panglima Garang in Selangor after performing Subuh prayers.

He added that the removal of a worshipper who was not causing disruption went against the values of mercy and respect fundamental to Islam.

"Suraus and mosques are sanctuaries for the soul... not exclusive spaces to be controlled without wisdom and compassion," Mohd Na'im said.

He also called for mosque and surau administrators to adopt a more compassionate and respectful approach, particularly when dealing with elderly congregants.

"Administrative actions must be carried out with deco...