Deputy minister reprimands those mocking PM’s 'takbir raya'

Summary

• Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Islamic Affairs) Zulkifli Hasan reprimands those mocking Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's takbir raya.

• He says not everything should be made into a joke, especially Islamic matters.

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Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Islamic Affairs) Zulkifli Hasan reprimanded those who mocked the recording of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's “takbir raya” (prayer to express gratitude to God after Ramadan).

The senator said that not everything should be made into a joke, especially matters related to Islam.

"Not everything should be opposed, not everything can be turned into satire and a cynical jest," he said in a social media post.

Earlier, a video of Anwar's “takbir raya” - edited to slow motion - was circulated on social media.

Users joked that Anwar sounded as if he were dying, while others compared it to the “takbir raya” from Kedah Menteri Besar Sanusi Md Nor, which was more melodious.

Sign of repentance, glorifying Almighty

Zulkifli emphasised that the “takbir raya” is a sign of repentance and glorification of Allah for all blessings.

"After a month of fasting and being given the opportunity to worship and enjoy the month of Ramadan, Muslims chant the ‘takbir’ in full of joy.

"It is also a symbol of unity and strength of the ummah (Muslim community) because all Muslims recite it together in Malaysia and around the world.

"The togetherness is highlighted in the ‘takbir raya’ - where we strengthen relationships among Muslims, regardless of skin colour or background," he said.

Zulkifli added that differences of opinion does not justify insulting fellow human beings.

"Differing views are not wrong, but do not stoop to the level of insulting, humiliating and slandering, especially with matters related to the sanctity of the name of Allah and the supremacy of Islam as a religion that we all love.

"In line with the spirit of the ‘takbir raya’, it should catalyse our spirit to continue to be committed to faith in Islam, and make us true believers, who display a high standard of morals and manners," he said.

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