Kota Kinabalu: A simple or “non-extreme” approach is the best formula to advance Muslims without undermining the position of non-Muslims, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
He said this approach is very appropriate to guarantee a harmonious multi-racial, muitli-religious and mutli-cultural society such as Sabah which has 33 indigenous groups speaking 50 languages and 80 ethnic dialects.
“Therefore, there is no doubt that the simplicity we practise is very important in maintaining and fostering harmony and unity within the State and country,” he said.
He said this at the Islamic Affairs Management Convention, in conjunction with the “Ijtimak Perdana Agensi Agama Seluruh Malaysia (IJPAM 2023)”, offciated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, at the Sabah International Convention Centre, here, Wednesday night.
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He added that it is the Government’s duty and responsibility to ensure the people live in a peaceful and prosperous environment.
“Religious differences are not an obstacle for us to live in harmony and peace. It will also not be a cause for us to live in enmity from generation to generation.
“Religion calls on us to do good deeds and foster unity, in addition to embracing noble values, respect and trusting each other,” he said.
Hajiji said Islamic administration in Malaysia has grown rapidly in line with the changes and progress achieved over 60 years since independence.
He said the organisation of the ijtimak programme could provide enlightenment on several issues related to religious affairs as well as understanding in Islamic affairs between the religious agencies involved.
“The network of cooperation and unity between federal religious agencies and religious agencies in the states should be continued towards updating and strengthening the administration and management of Islamic religious affairs in the country for the benefit of the Muslim community as a whole.
“It will also ensure that Islamic religious agencies do not lag behind and be in parallel with government administration affairs in this country,” he said.
“The management of Islamic affairs is different from normal management because its role is not just administration but a source of reference and guidance in the life of the community or Muslims at all times.
“This matter is in line with the core of ‘Madani Malaysia’, even in line with the goals of the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) roadmap which emphasises the development and empowerment of human capital to embody human creativity and commendable morals.”
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