Kuala lumpur: The Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) is prepared to provide expertise in Islamic institutional development, education, dakwah (Islamic outreach), training, and community development for the proposed Mandaluyong City Islamic Centre in Manila, the Philippines. JAKIM Deputy Director-General (Operations) Datuk Mohd Ajib Ismail said the department fully supports the initiative by the Muslim Care Malaysia Society (MCM) to establish the centre as part of efforts to empower Muslim communities abroad.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, JAKIM is ready to serve as a strategic partner by sharing their experience and expertise, while also assisting in the development of Islamic educational institutions and dakwah training programmes. This was announced at the launch of the Mandaluyong City Islamic Centre construction project today. Mohd Ajib expressed confidence that the centre could become a model for Muslim community development by meeting the needs of the local Muslim population while strengthening the bonds of brotherhood between Malaysia and the Philippines.
Speaking at a press conference afterwards, MCM president Zulkifli Wahijan said the proposal to build the Islamic centre was prompted by the lack of adequate worship facilities for Muslims in Mandaluyong. He highlighted that there is only a 10-foot by 10-foot prayer space available, which can accommodate about 25 people, forcing many worshippers to pray outside during Friday prayers.
Zulkifli outlined that the Islamic centre, estimated to cost RM6 million, is envisioned as a comprehensive hub for worship, Islamic education, dakwah, welfare services, and community development. He stated that MCM welcomes support and collaboration from the corporate sector, government agencies, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and members of the public to help realise the project.
According to Zulkifli, the Muslim population in Mandaluyong stood at 1,854 based on the 2020 census. However, he noted that the centre is expected to serve a much larger Muslim community, including workers and students from across Metro Manila.