KUCHING: The Shariah Maqasid approach needs to be translated and adopted as a guideline to expanding the Islamic network in Sarawak and neighbouring countries, said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
Taking the Islamic approach as Ad-Din (a way of life encompassing all aspects of human life, including political, economic, and social aspects), he called upon the Muslim community in the state to further expand their da’wah network.
“Just like in social media, the phrase ‘worldwideweb’ (www), similar to Islam, let us establish a network among ourselves because our culture, way of life is similar and this includes da’wah.
“We are only separated by political boundaries, and Islam does not recognise political boundaries,” he said.
Abang Johari said this at the opening ceremony of ‘Muktamar Masjid-Masjid Serantau 1444 Hijrah/2023’ held at a hotel here, today (July 5).
He called on MIS to provide Islamic knowledge in developing the Muslim community in line with the state’s aspirations to achieve advanced and high-income status by 2030.
“That is our target, and God willing, beyond 2030, with the new generation that has new ideas and utilises new technology, we will be able to further develop the teachings of Islam for the betterment of humanity,” he added.
Citing his recent trip to New Zealand as Regional Islamic Da’wah Council of South East Asia and Pacific (RISEAP) president, where there are minority Muslims in the country, he said the international school there incorporates the Islamic curriculum as the core curriculum alongside the country’s educational curriculum.
“God willing, Sarawak will also have an international Islamic school,” he added.
Also present were MIS president Datuk Misnu Taha, State Legislative Assembly (DUN) speaker Tan Sri Datuk Amar Asfia Awang Nassar and Deputy Minister of Utility and Telecommunication (Utility) Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi.
