Kuala Lumpur: The Federal Territories Islamic Religious Council (MAIWP) has been urged to enhance its adoption of digital technology in Islamic governance, in line with the five key agendas set for this year. Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na'im Mokhtar emphasized the importance of this initiative to ensure a more efficient, transparent, and accountable management and administrative system for Muslims.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr Mohd Na'im highlighted that digital technology can significantly improve the management of tithe, wakaf, and other Islamic affairs by facilitating a more organized update and access to data and information for the public. This technological advancement would also enable better monitoring and management of these activities. His comments were part of a speech during the presentation of promotion letters to 42 MAIWP personnel, with acting MAIWP chief executive officer Datuk Mohd Nizam Yahya and MAIWP chairman Syed Kamarulzaman Syed Kabeer also in attendance.
The five key agendas set for all agencies under the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) include upholding the development of the Quran and hadith, enhancing understanding and appreciation of Islam, strengthening the application of technology in governance, promoting social well-being of the ummah, and empowering unity and civilisational harmony. Dr Mohd Na'im urged MAIWP to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) technology for disseminating information on its initiatives, alongside intensifying efforts to address poverty through policies aimed at enhancing the potential of Muslims in various aspects within the Federal Territories.
He further announced that this year has been declared MAIWP Quality Year, focusing on improving work quality and service delivery, including anti-corruption measures and better tithe distribution management. In a press conference, Dr Mohd Na'im also encouraged the public to use social media to foster unity and avoid sowing divisions among ethnic and religious communities. He urged caution when addressing sensitive issues online, noting that Malaysia's economic success relies on its people being united rather than divided.