PUTATAN: United Sabah Islamic Organisation (Usia), the largest and oldest Islamic association in the State, can assist the Government in reviving the country’s economy, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
He said this could be done through business networks such as retail sales, establishing cooperatives and other entrepreneurial activities.
He said the strength of Usia, which has 29 divisions in Sabah, lies in its ability to play a role in reinforcing “ukhuwah silaturrahim” (close ties) among its members and the multi-racial community in Sabah.
Usia was registered on Oct 10, 1969, and plays a major role in uniting the Muslims and people of Sabah to create a society with high moral character.
Hajiji also called on Usia to help equip the youths of Sabah with education.
“In addition to academic education, Usia has the capacity to also equip the youths with technical skills and religious knowledge to prepare them as successors for the continuity of ‘dakwah’ and ‘tarbiyyah in the State and the country,” he said in his speech at the opening of Usia’s 37th Annual Assembly, here, Saturday.
The text of his speech was read by Deputy Chief Minister III cum State Works Minister Datuk Ir. Shahelmey Yahya.
Hajiji said Usia should fully utilise its expertise to attract youths to enhance their skills on par with current needs and encourage them to engage in community and “dakwah” activities.
“The young people as the future leaders need to be equipped with education and technical skills, especially religious knowledge, so that they can be successor to the continuation of the dakwah and tarbiyyah (develop and to grow potential within oneself through training) movement in Sabah and the country.
“The State Government will continue to support Usia’s efforts in carrying out activities that benefit the people of Sabah, including dakwah, community outreach and entrepreneurship programmes, thereby helping to unify the community,” he said. Also present were Usia President Datuk Sapawi Ahmad.
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