KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 29 — Muslims in the country have been advised to avoid disputes when discussing differences in religious schools of thought or methodologies.
Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Zulkifli Hasan said disagreements over such matters, which overshadowed the real issues affecting the ummah, were unproductive.
“There are many other challenges the ummah can focus on, such as mental health issues and the development of artificial intelligence technologies.
“Let us adhere to the aspiration of building a Madani nation — peaceful, harmonious, equitable, and just. Let us set aside differences and concentrate on developing the nation while finding solutions to pressing economic and social issues,” he said.
Zulkifli was speaking as a guest on Bernama Radio’s ‘Nota Rohani’ segment at Wisma Bernama today.
On July 2, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Mohd Na’im Mokhtar tabled three bills related to Islamic affairs in the Dewan Rakyat, including the Federal Territories Mufti Bill 2024, which has sparked discussions and debates on social media.
The Bill includes provisions to define Ahli Sunnah Wal Jamaah, whose creed is rooted in the al-Asyairah and al-Maturidiah schools of thought.
Commenting on the RM2 billion allocation for Islamic affairs under Budget 2025, Zulkifli said the funds would be used to strengthen the development of Islamic practices.
“This includes innovative planning to position Islamic values as a global model, reinforcing Malaysia’s status as a leader in the halal industry, enhancing Syariah law through initiatives like the establishment of the Malaysian Syariah Legal Academy, and upgrading religious facilities.
“At the Federal level, we will continue to strengthen synergies with state governments, which are directly responsible for religious affairs. Only through strong collaboration can we effectively fulfil our duty to empower Islam across the nation,” he said.
— Bernama
