Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar calls on ulama to fortify unity and lead Muslims towards moderation amid modern challenges like misinformation and moral issues.
BUKIT MERTAJAM: Ulama and preachers must uphold unity rather than weaken the long-established bonds of brotherhood among Muslims nurtured by earlier scholars.
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar said the Muslim community must be guided towards becoming a moderate ummah.
He identified current challenges including division, misinformation, social media misuse and moral issues.
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“Cooperation between ulama and umarak is vital to ensure religious institutions respond appropriately to religious requirements, public interest and current realities,” he said.
Mohd Na’im emphasised this approach must be wise, responsive and balanced.
He spoke at the launch of the Al-Falah MADANI Carnival and national-level Ulama-Umarak Tour Programme at Masjid Mengkuang Titi.
The minister highlighted that ulama-umarak collaboration has long been fundamental in Islamic civilisation.
Ulama provide spiritual guidance while umarak implement policies, administration and governance to advance the nation.
In national administration, ulama shoulder responsibility for guiding society with sound knowledge.
They must be voices of truth delivered with courtesy and advise umarak with wisdom rather than harshness.
“The role of ulama and academics goes beyond teaching; they are guides for society, stabilisers in times of confusion and lights in moments of darkness,” he said.
The carnival continues the first edition held in Pahang as part of ministry efforts to convey dakwah messages.
It promotes Islamic values, brings communities closer to religious agencies and introduces Malaysia MADANI policies.
Throughout the three-day carnival beginning yesterday, various programmes were arranged with religious agencies providing direct services.
The event is expected to attract 10,000 visitors.
Mohd Na’im confirmed the carnival will continue across all states.
This edition also features presentation of Tokoh Murabbi Mithali 2025 awards to imams, takmir teachers and KAFA teachers.
Tokoh Imam Mithali award recipient Agus Lukman Sulam described the honour as recognition of his service and the Masjid Jamek Al-Mansur congregation in Teluk Intan. – Bernama
