Religious Affairs Minister Abides by Sultan’s Call to Strengthen Muslim Faith

Immediate Action to be Taken

PETALING JAYA: Religious Affairs Minister Na’im Mokhtar has announced that immediate action will be taken to carry out the call by the Sultan of Selangor, Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, for increased efforts to strengthen the faith of Muslims.

Abiding by the Sultan’s Views

Na’im said he would abide by the sultan’s views against proposed guidelines for Muslims attending non-Muslim festivities, funerals or events at non-Muslim places of worship. The guidelines, which were announced by Na’im on Wednesday, require organisers of the events to obtain approval from relevant authorities, and seek the views of Islamic authorities if the event involved Muslims.

Collaboration with National Unity Ministry

Na’im said the Islamic development department Jakim is actively collaborating with the national unity ministry to organise dialogue programmes that promote national unity. Agencies under his department will cooperate with Islamic religious authorities to intensify efforts to propagate Islamic understanding and strengthen the faith of Muslims.

Proposed Guidelines

The proposed guidelines forbid speeches or songs containing so-called religious propaganda, or performances that would purportedly “insult Muslims”, while religious symbols of faiths other than Islam could not be displayed.

Sultan’s Views

Yesterday, the Selangor Royal Office said Sultan Sharafuddin did not agree with the proposed guidelines; the sultan was of the view that the Quran and Sunnah already provided the best guidelines for Muslims, who would not easily deviate from their faith or be influenced by external elements.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the religious affairs minister has announced that immediate action will be taken to carry out the call by the Sultan of Selangor to strengthen the faith of Muslims. The minister has also abided by the sultan’s views against proposed guidelines for Muslims attending non-Muslim festivities, funerals or events at non-Muslim places of worship.

FAQs

Q: What is the purpose of the proposed guidelines?
A: The purpose of the proposed guidelines is to regulate the attendance of Muslims at non-Muslim festivities, funerals or events at non-Muslim places of worship.

Q: What are the requirements for organisers of the events?
A: Organisers of the events must obtain approval from relevant authorities, and seek the views of Islamic authorities if the event involved Muslims.

Q: What are the restrictions on speeches and songs?
A: Speeches and songs containing so-called religious propaganda, or performances that would purportedly “insult Muslims” are prohibited.

Q: What is the view of the Sultan of Selangor on the proposed guidelines?
A: The Sultan of Selangor does not agree with the proposed guidelines, and believes that the Quran and Sunnah already provide the best guidelines for Muslims.