A NEW umbrella movement is taking shape within Malaysia’s Indian Muslim community, with MUKMIN stepping forward to bring together groups, leaders and professionals that have long worked in silos.
At its first executive committee (exco) meeting, the organisation made clear its pitch: less fragmentation, more coordination — and faster results.
Its president, Datuk Shahul Dawood, said the community can no longer afford to operate in pockets.
“No single organisation can solve everything. But if we pool our strengths, we can open doors and create real opportunities,” he said.
MUKMIN is built around five focus areas — education, economic empowerment, leadership, social welfare, and community unity — with an emphasis on practical outcomes rather than just dialogue.
Among its early moves is securing more than RM7 million in scholarships through partnerships with six higher education institutions, creating over 350 spots for students across academic and TVET pathways.
More partnerships are in the pipeline.
The group is also launching an “Adopt A Graduate” programme, calling on businesses and professionals to step in — not just with funding, but with jobs, mentorship and industry exposure.
The aim is simple: help students get through university, then get them into the workforce.
MUKMIN is set for its official launch this August, timed with Malaysia’s Independence Month celebrations. More than 2,500 participants are expected, including community leaders, policymakers and international delegates.
The event will also bring in Indian Muslim representatives from abroad, as the organisation looks to build regional ties and widen its network.
Internally, its leadership has mapped out priorities for the next two years, focusing on growth, youth involvement and making sure programmes actually deliver on the ground.
Shahul said the group is not interested in being “just another organisation”.
“We’re building a movement — one that creates opportunities and lifts the community as a whole,” he said.
He added that MUKMIN aims to become a central meeting point for collaboration — and a stronger, more unified voice on issues affecting the Indian Muslim community.
“The real test is impact. If we work together, we can go much further,” he said. – June 20, 2026
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