JUDGMENTBY: ABDUL KADIR SULAIMAN J

: This is an application by the plaintiff for the following reliefs:

(a) a declaration that his renunciation of the Islamic religion by a deed

poll dated 12 October 1995 is in accordance with the law and valid;

(b) a declaration that he is not required to obtain the consent of the

defendant to renounce the religion of Islam;

(c) costs; and

(d) any further or other relief the court deems fit and just.

According to his supporting affidavit wherein the deed poll and a statutory declaration of 12 October 1995 were exhibited, the plaintiff was born a Buddhist. He embraced the religion of Islam on 30 March 1978 and used the name of Md Hakim Lee. But by the deed poll and the statutory declaration, he has renounced the religion of Islam and showed an intention to use the name of Lee Leong Kim in place of Md Hakim Lee. He deposed that his action is guaranteed by art 11 of the Federal Constitution and as such, no authority or body could limit or hinder his freedom. The defendant did not file any affidavits in opposition to this application of the plaintiff. However, the defendant filed a summons-in-chambers to have the said application of the pl