RIYADH, Feb. 19 (Xinhua) -- Saudi Arabia on Monday banned a local writer for negative remarks on "Azan," the Islamic call to worship, Sabq local online news reported.

The writer, Mohamed Al Suhaimi, would be banned from writing and media activity.

Al Suhaimi told Dubai-based MBC channel recently that the loud sound of Azan could disturb children and those who are sleeping, calling to reduce the number of mosques in neighborhoods.

The ministry tweeted the decision that also includes referring him to an investigation committee.

Saudi Arabia have been taken new steps to ease its strict and conservative society with more women empowerment initiatives and the organizing of various concerts.