KUALA LUMPUR – The Perak Islamic Religious Department (JAIPk) has reminded individuals out on the ground for flood relief efforts to do their volunteer work sincerely, and not merely for publicity.
In the script of its sermon delivered today at Perak mosques, the public is urged to avoid “showboating” their deeds in the hope of getting plaudits from the masses.
“We thank those who have gone to the ground to help flood victims, for their sacrifice and readiness, and to those who have offered various forms of donations – including ideas, services, manpower, assets, cash, and moral support.
“But we would like to advise (them) – offer help with a sincere heart and pure intentions, for the sake of Allah,” the sermon read.
“Avoid showing off, acting something out to be recorded by photographers with the intention of getting media attention and compliments, to the point we become arrogant. Know that Allah is always watching and is all knowing.”
While the sermon made no mention of any names, this comes in light of a series of social media postings and news reports of cabinet members visiting flood victims – which many Malaysians had described as mere “photo ops”.
Netizens have on social media lambasted those with position and power of treating their visits as opportunities to gain publicity, while not necessarily making themselves useful – accusing them of being “flood tourists”.
In today’s sermon, JAIPk said the flood disaster – which has killed 48 so far – is a test by God to those who are living a comfortable life.
It said by right, those who are unaffected should not only express their deepest gratitude, but ought to also help victims who are forced to live in difficulty.
The department said this can be done through, among others, extending their prayers for those affected, mobilising aid to victims, and offering any forms of help as much as possible, regardless of race, religion, position, and political ideology.
“The cries of misery of the victims, especially the elderly, children, pregnant women, and mothers of newborns – who are in the cold and seeking safety on the roofs of buildings – are very heartbreaking.
“It is compulsory that we offer help to these flood victims.”
The sermon added that the recent disaster is an opportunity for all to self-reflect, and to admit to any misdeeds that may have been committed “by them or those before them” when they were entrusted with the responsibility of looking after the earth, the mountains, forests, rivers, lakes, and beaches.
“Take corrective measures so the innocent are spared from falling victim to greater calamities in the future.” – The Vibes, December 31, 2021
