TAWAU: The State Government will continue to support Islamic-oriented programmes as long as they do not contradict the beliefs of Ahli Sunnah Wal Jamaah (ASWJ), particularly as an approach to addressing the proliferation of potentially misleading content on social media.
Youth, Sports Development and Creative Economy Minister Datuk Nizam Abu Bakar Titingan said Islamic programmes could serve as a positive approach to addressing confusion over religious understanding that may arise among Muslims in the State.
However, Nizam reminded organisers, including non-governmental organisations (NGOs), to ensure their programmes were in line with ASWJ, the mainstream Islamic school of thought in the country based on the Quran, Sunnah and the understanding of the Companions, Tabi’in and Tabi’ al-Tabi’in.
“We are concerned that some may use religion as a cover to spread teachings that contradict ASWJ, which is why organisers should seek advice from the relevant authorities such as the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim) or the Sabah Islamic Religious Affairs Department (Jheains),” he said.
Nizam said this at a press conference after attending the Menata Hati Lecture Programme featuring renowned Indonesian preacher Ustaz Hilman Fauzi at the Tawau Community Hall here on Sunday.
He said his ministry was concerned about the emergence of suspicious content that was inconsistent with ASWJ but easily accessible through social media, potentially confusing Muslims, particularly women and youths, and requiring vigilance from all parties.
“Therefore, we also hope that Islamic NGOs such as the Malaysian Muslim Women Welfare Organisation (LKPIM), selawat NGOs and other parties intending to organise Islamic-oriented programmes will contact Jakim or Jheains beforehand,” he urged.
Commenting on the newly held lecture programme in the district, he praised the initiative by LKPIM Tawau branch, which attracted more than 5,000 participants and organised a programme that was in line with Islamic principles and complied with the guidelines of the relevant authorities.
He said the programme could help increase religious devotion and provide education to the community, particularly the predominantly female participants, in carrying out their daily lives as Muslims who adhere firmly to ASWJ.
“The encouraging turnout shows that Muslims in Tawau are genuinely eager for religious programmes that can further strengthen their faith and devotion to Allah SWT,” he concluded.