Is it permissible to relocate old graves on land lots in Mukim Jeram Batu, Pontian, Johor, and under what conditions?

Summary

The Johor State Fatwa Committee ruled that relocating the old graves on the lots concerned is permissible under Islamic law in order to preserve the dignity of the graves. The landowner must carry out istibdal of the cemetery land, paying the current value assessed by the Valuation Department, with the money paid into the Amwal Badal of the Johor State Islamic Religious Council to buy other burial land. The applicant bears all excavation and relocation costs. The number of marked and unmarked graves must be established, workers must be experienced, Muslim and cover their aurat, heirs must be informed, authorities' permission obtained, and designated officials and local leaders must attend the work.

Written in our own words from the original fatwa — check the source before acting on it.