PETALING JAYA: The Federal Constitution alone cannot guarantee the sanctity of Islam if followers tarnish its image with despicable behaviour and appoint leaders who are corrupt or hypocritical, says Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah.
In the same vein, the Perak Ruler, who is chairman of the Malaysian National Council of Islamic Religious Affairs (MKI), said it is high time for a cultural transformation to be in place for the Malays to move forward, with the days of scaring the people into submission through made-up stories involving superstition and the supernatural already over.
“We must build bridges to reconcile divergent views and interpretations, preventing confrontations that could fracture unity within the Muslim community.
“The constitutional recognition of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong and the Rulers of the states as the heads of Islam ensures that the status of Islam remains unaffected by any political changes following elections,” said Sultan Nazrin in his opening speech at the 72nd meeting of MKI in Kuala Lumpur yesterday.
Sultan Nazrin said Malaysian Muslims should not be content that Islam is enshrined in the Constitution as the sanctity of the religion is measured by how Muslims behave.
“The sanctity of Islam is not solely dependent on constitutional clauses. Islam is not just rhetoric, slogans or banners; it must be demonstrated through tangible actions by its followers.
“The greatness of Islam should be reflected in the character and actions of the Muslim community, not merely in the glorified stories of past Islamic figures,” said Sultan Nazrin.
The Ruler also shared a story of a Scottish tourist in London who attended an “Introduction to Islam” exhibition.
“When asked by a da’ee (Islamic preacher) if he needed an introduction to Islam, the tourist replied that he was not interested in theory.
Sharing a light moment: Sultan Nazrin speaking to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim at the 72nd meeting of MKI in Kuala Lumpur. — Bernama
“He acknowledged Islam as a beautiful and appealing religion that advocates harmonious relationships with all, including non-Muslims. However, he observed that the conduct of many Muslims was far from what Islam demands,” said the Ruler.
Sultan Nazrin said the man observed that there are Muslims who tend to resort to lying, slander, racism, accumulate wealth through improper means, glorify the rich while degrading the poor, use laws selectively, manipulate religion for personal gain and are blind followers.
The Ruler said Muslims must face this reality and not be defensive.
“We must focus on content over form, prioritise outcomes over outputs and emphasise quality over quantity.
“The past grandeur of Islam has left behind a remarkable legacy and high ideals. However, progress for any community cannot rely solely on legacy and ideals.
“The survival of the Muslim community must be built on strengthening mental resilience and instilling confidence to compete and excel, rather than resorting to fear tactics that create prejudice and discomfort when interacting with non-Muslims.
“Using fear to control the community is akin to how Malay children were frightened with stories of pontianak and hantu kubur in pre- and post-independence eras, which suppressed their bravery and made them fearful.
“Excessive fear-mongering is highly detrimental, as it erodes confidence and hinders the community’s ability to compete on a global stage, especially outside their own group,” said Sultan Nazrin.
The Ruler said Islam should not be allowed to appear as a hollow name devoid of meaningful substance.
“The success of promoting Islam largely depends on the success of its followers.
“To elevate the stature of Islam and the community, it is crucial to focus on enriching the younger generation with knowledge through coordinated and strategic initiatives and harmonised and integrated efforts.
“By breaking free from narrow perspectives and outdated thinking, MKI should lead a cultural and intellectual transformation, fostering a dynamic and progressive community that amplifies the essence of Islam,” said Sultan Nazrin.
The event saw the addition of six new members to MKI following their appointment by the Conference of Rulers.
They are Datuk Dr Afifi al-Akiti, Tan Sri Azman Mokhtar, Tan Sri Abdul Wahid Omar, Datuk Mohamad Nordin Ibrahim, Datuk Prof Dr Azizan Baharuddin, and Senator Datuk Salehuddin Saidin.
