Muslim couples are advised to seek marriage guidance from authorized authorities rather than relying on “divorce coaches,” whose advice may be misguided and potentially harmful to the family.
Marhamah Rosli, Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs), said that guidance not based on Islamic law (Shariah) can not only confuse couples but also jeopardize marriages.
“The issue of ‘divorce coaches’ highlights that any advice regarding marriage and divorce must follow proper knowledge, understanding, and guidance from recognized authorities. Fair consultation should take place before any action is taken,” she said during a parliamentary Q&A session today.
Marhamah was responding to a question from Zulkifli Ismail (PN-Jasin) regarding government action, particularly by JAKIM, against the growing trend of “divorce coaches” that normalize divorce and threaten the institution of the family.
She emphasized that misleading terms and approaches in Islamic family matters, such as “Coach Cerai,” need strict regulation to prevent public misunderstanding.
“The MADANI government, through JAKIM, takes seriously the recent viral issue of ‘divorce coaches,’ which emerged after a celebrity divorce that drew attention to Islamic administrative matters. Such issues should be referred to and handled by authorized parties in accordance with law and Shariah,” she said.
The remarks come after actress Uqasha Senrose reportedly engaged a “divorce coach” to resolve marital issues with Kamal Adli, a move criticized by the public. Kamal Adli had called for Uqasha to meet face-to-face to settle disputes instead of airing personal matters on social media.
He also urged the so-called “divorce coach” to act fairly by hearing both sides rather than supporting one party. The individual, however, claimed they only provide post-divorce guidance based on current needs.
