THE Sultan of Perak, Sultan Nazrin Shah, has cautioned that parts of the Muslim community appear to have lost their moral compass, becoming ensnared by materialism, obsessed with status, and intoxicated by positions of power.
His Royal Highness observed that the pursuit of material wealth has, for some, become a new creed, driving unhealthy competition, ethical lapses, and a disregard for humanity.
Integrity is being sacrificed in the relentless quest for worldly gain, he said, with bribery used to secure loyalty and slander employed to undermine rivals.
“Positions and power are, in truth, tests of faith and God-consciousness. When positions and power are not accompanied by faith and God-consciousness, they can erode devotion to the Oneness of Allah, shifting obedience away from divine command towards human decree,” Sultan Nazrin told the 74th meeting of the National Council for Islamic Religious Affairs (MKI) today.
The Sultan, who chairs MKI, urged reflection on Allah’s guidance in verses 51 and 52 of Surah An-Nahl, describing power as both a divine gift and a profound trial.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim attended the meeting, along with Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Dr Zulkifli Hasan, his deputy Marhamah Rosli, Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar, and Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim) director-general Datuk Dr Sirajuddin Suhaimee.
Sultan Nazrin highlighted that Islamic institutions are not immune to criticism when leaders display weaknesses in governance or lapses in integrity. Institutions exemplifying excellence and moral uprightness, he said, not only uplift the ummah but also correct misconceptions about Islam, strengthen its message, and foster a dignified image of the faith.
Those entrusted with leadership, the Sultan emphasised, must possess unquestionable integrity, think proactively, innovate boldly, and act dynamically with courage to explore new frontiers in pursuit of the greater good.
At a time when society increasingly values outward success over spiritual and moral development, Sultan Nazrin stressed that the courage to uphold truth must be nurtured from early stages of life.
He noted that education in Islam prioritises inner strength and balance, shaping individuals intellectually, emotionally, spiritually, and physically, adding that academic achievement alone is insufficient without moral guidance, character, proper conduct, faith, and piety.
“The pure spirit and noble purpose of education must be revived and given precedence in striving to guide the nation onto the right path, so that it may flourish as a territory fair and happy,” he said.
Sultan Nazrin urged MKI members, representing diverse constituencies, to unite in word and deed, placing the educational agenda of the ummah at the centre of their work and nurturing the community to become true Muslims. - January 13, 2026
