Over 1,500 young Islamic teachers convened in Kuala Lumpur for the first national assembly, focusing on progressive discourse and their role in society
KUALA LUMPUR: A total of 1,500 young asatizah from across Malaysia gathered for the inaugural National Young Asatizah Assembly 2026 (HAMKA).
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Dr Zulkifli Hasan said the platform was for discourse and dialogue among youths to discuss the nation’s future.
He said it also allowed young religious teachers to discuss their role in enlightening society on a progressive and moderate understanding of Islam.
“This programme marks the beginning of a new wave in the young asatizah movement,” Zulkifli told reporters after officiating the programme.
He added that assemblies would be organised more aggressively at zone and state levels this year, including throughout Ramadan.
A pro tem committee has been established to coordinate the programme nationwide, aligning with the Rakan Masjid initiative.
Zulkifli said the Da’ie Madani programme was a key driver in empowering young asatizah through skills training for dakwah activities.
On accreditation for asatizah, he said it should be carried out lawfully and with respect for state jurisdiction.
“We want all these movements to be implemented in an orderly manner and based on existing legal provisions,” he stated.
This approach ensures efforts to strengthen the religious affairs ecosystem receive broad support.
Commenting on social media debates about determining Ramadan and Aidilfitri, Zulkifli said they did not affect the credibility of Malaysia’s falak expertise.
He said Malaysia is an international reference in Islamic astronomy, with local expertise recognised among the best.
“We should be proud of the expertise we have. Other countries also refer to us,” he added.
Efforts by certain parties to debate the matter would not undermine this advantage, he noted.
In a separate development, Zulkifli stated that the announcement for the Ujian Penilaian Kelas KAFA (UPKK) results would be made tomorrow.
