Govt agencies to act swiftly on S'gor sultan's call to strengthen Muslim faith

Religious government agencies will swiftly implement efforts to strengthen the faith and religious understanding of Muslims in Malaysia, following Selangor ruler Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah’s decree.

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Na’im Mokhtar said agencies such as the Islamic Development Department (Jakim) will collaborate with state Islamic authorities to enhance religious outreach efforts and reinforce Islamic faith.

He added that Jakim is also working closely with the National Unity Ministry to organise the Harmony Dialogue programme, which promotes interfaith understanding and national unity.

"In addition, the Interfaith Harmony Committee Meeting platform will be utilised to further strengthen harmony and foster interaction between Muslims and non-Muslims," he said in a statement today.

The minister was responding to Sultan Sharafuddin’s decree regarding the proposal to introduce guidelines for Muslims attending non-Muslim celebrations.

Yesterday, Sultan Sharafuddin firmly opposed the proposal, emphasising that as a multiracial and multireligious nation, Malaysia must uphold religious tolerance, which should never be compromised.

As the head of Islam in Selangor, His Royal Highness said the proposed guidelines were ill-timed, especially when Malaysians were actively fostering goodwill among different communities to strengthen national unity.

Sultan Sharafuddin also urged Muslims, particularly in Selangor, to continue to strengthen their faith and reminded all citizens to respect and acknowledge Islam as the religion of the federation, as enshrined in the Federal Constitution.

- Bernama

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