KUALA LUMPUR: The passing of former Grand Imam of the National Mosque, Tan Sri Syaikh Ismail Muhammad, is a profound loss to Muslims in Malaysia.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the late Syaikh Ismail was remembered not only as the longest-serving Grand Imam of the National Mosque, but also as a distinguished educator, mursyid and Quranic scholar who dedicated his life to imparting knowledge.
“The late Syaikh Ismail’s service as a judge at both national and international Quran Recital and Memorisation Assemblies also elevated Malaysia’s standing in the eyes of the world,” he said in a Facebook post today.
Ahmad Zahid said the highly respected religious figure was soft-spoken, deeply knowledgeable, and made immense contributions in advancing the Quran, Islamic scholarship and dakwah.
“His exemplary character will continue to inspire us,” he said.
“My deepest condolences to family members of the late Syaikh Ismail. May they be granted strength and fortitude in facing this difficult time.
“May Allah SWT forgive all his sins, accept his good deeds, and place his soul among the righteous,” he said.
The late Syaikh Ismail, who was named the National Tokoh Maal Hijrah 1443H/2021 and served as the Grand Imam of the National Mosque from 2007 to 2019, passed away early this morning at the age of 81.
Meanwhile, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar said the late Syaikh Ismail was one of the key figures in advancing Quranic literacy in the country.
He said Syaikh Ismail was not only a teacher, but a murabbi of the ummah – one who guided with wisdom, gentleness and the steadfastness that comes from true knowledge.
“Personally, I am deeply moved by his passing. I have many memories with the late Syaikh Ismail that I will hold as a trust in our ongoing efforts to ensure that the tradition of knowledge, noble conduct and love for the Quran continues to flourish,” he said.
Mohd Na’im prayed that Allah SWT would forgive, bless and grant the late Syaikh Ismail a place among the righteous.
“To the entire family of the late Syaikh Ismail, I offer my deepest condolences. May they be granted patience and strength during this difficult time,” he said.
