💍 Khitbah & engagement · #66

My parents "engaged" me to a cousin when I was a child. Am I bound by that agreement?

No. Marriage requires your consent as an adult; a family promise made in childhood is only a wish, not a contract.
The Prophet ﷺ said that a previously married woman is not married off until she is consulted and a virgin is not married off until her permission is sought (Sahih al-Bukhari 5136), and he annulled the marriage of a woman whose father married her off against her will (Sahih al-Bukhari 5138). Malaysian law also requires the consent of both parties (Act 303 s.13). If you do not agree, say so respectfully to your parents and, if needed, through a respected mediator, so that family relations are not damaged. If you do agree, a formal engagement can take place when both are adults and ready. See the question on forced marriage.

Sources

Sahih al-Bukhari 5136Sahih al-Bukhari 5138Act 303, s.13

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This answer is general reference, not a fatwa. For your situation, consult the religious affairs office, a Syarie lawyer or your state Syariah Court.

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