Earlier this year, the story of Shuhadah Jaafar's family in Kemaman, Terengganu, gained national attention in Malaysia. Shuhadah publicly shared her journey of accepting polygamy, revealing that the woman her husband intended to marry was her close friend, Nor Azura Mohd Azmin.

Muhammad Azizi Zakaria with his two wives. Photo: azizizakaria1225

Shuhadah and Nor Azura met through business, developing a close friendship. Shuhadah, however, never imagined her husband of 7 years, Muhammad Azizi Zakaria, would develop feelings for her friend while the three collaborated on a business venture.

"I was heartbroken. No wife wants to share her husband," Shuhadah admitted, recalling her feelings of betrayal and fear of replacement.

Her husband's approach, however, made a difference. Instead of secrecy, Azizi openly admitted his feelings for Nor Azura. He sought his wife's permission to marry a second time, in accordance with Syariah Islamic Court regulations, to "uphold moral and religious boundaries."

After much consideration, Shuhadah agreed. She even appeared in court to support her husband's marriage application. The wedding ceremony was a simple affair held at their shared home.

Azizi recounted that the Syariah court judge repeatedly reminded him of his first wife's sacrifice. "My wife is the one who needs to be most appreciated in this story," he said, vowing to strive for fairness between the two women.

Currently, all three are learning to live harmoniously. Shuhadah clarified that by sharing her story publicly, she intends not to promote polygamy, but to emphasize transparency in marriage.

"Don't choose the easy path of a secret marriage or eloping abroad. Deception only causes more hurt," the wife advised.

Muhammad Azizi Zakaria's two wives. Photo: azizizakaria1225

In Malaysia, the law is clearly divided based on religion. For non-Muslims, the Law Reform (Marriage and Divorce) Act 1976 mandates monogamy.

However, for the Muslim community, which constitutes the majority of the population, Islamic Family Law permits men to marry up to four wives. This practice is subject to strict regulations, including: Syariah Islamic Court approval; demonstrating sufficient financial capability to provide for all wives and children, including housing and living expenses; committing to fair treatment across all wives, covering material support, time, and emotional aspects; and, in some states, seeking the first wife's consent.

In recent years, Syariah courts in Malaysia have tightened these regulations to protect the rights of women and children. This has made taking additional wives more difficult, with the practice now primarily common among the economically well-off.

By Nhat Minh (According to Mothership, Harian Metro)