MINISTER in the Prime Minister’s Department for Religious Affairs, Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar, has called for an end to the culture of slander, provocation and the dangerous practice of takfir—declaring fellow Muslims as infidels—warning that such actions only serve to harm the religion and the nation.
“It is time to put a stop to infighting that only brings loss to both religion and the country,” he said. “Enough of our society being divided and quarrelling among ourselves. All hatred must be dissolved with values of compassion and mercy.”
He was speaking during the East Zone leg of the *Jelajah Madani Ulama dan Umara* (JMUU) programme, held in conjunction with the Al-Falah Madani Carnival in Indera Mahkota, Pahang, as part of Maal Hijrah 1447H celebrations. The event took place at Masjid Beserah on Saturday.
“Let us commit ourselves to building this nation upon Islamic values and a high civilisational standard,” he urged.
During the same occasion, nine individuals—including imams, religious teachers (*guru takmir*), and KAFA educators—were recognised as *Tokoh Mithali* award recipients. Each was awarded RM1,000 in cash along with a certificate of appreciation.
Mohd Na’im underscored that societal harmony and peace are essential foundations for national stability. He explained that the five key objectives of *Maqasid Syariah*—the preservation of religion, life, intellect, lineage and property—cannot be achieved without a peaceful and prosperous social environment.
“In other words, peace and harmony are prerequisites for achieving the goals of Maqasid Syariah,” he said.
“Therefore, building peace and harmony within society and the nation must be prioritised for the greater good of all. This is an issue that must be brought forward by community religious educators.”
Addressing the religious educators in attendance, he continued: “Ashabul Fadhilah (distinguished), ladies and gentlemen, as murabbi ummah, you must serve as a guiding light and unifying force for the Muslim community, particularly in the states of Pahang, Kelantan, and Terengganu.”
He also announced that the Federal Government, through the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM), had allocated RM242.57 million in funding for 21,086 recipients in those three states this year.
The allocation includes monthly stipends for imams, allowances for *guru takmir* and KAFA teachers, a one-off Special Financial Assistance (BKK) payment of RM500, and Aidilfitri bonuses.
“This reflects the government’s commitment to safeguarding the welfare of our ‘murabbi ummah’ (educator of the community) and strengthening the presence of Islam in the country,” he said. - June 28, 2025
