Ipoh: The National and Regional Mosque Network Secretariat will be established immediately following the Regional Mosque Conference 2026 to systematically strengthen mosque institutions across Southeast Asia.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Malaysian Consultative Council of Islamic Organisations (MAPIM) president Mohd Azmi Abdul Hamid stated that the secretariat would coordinate links among regional mosques, handle member registration, collect data, train volunteers, and manage public and international relations. The initiative aims to register 1,000 mosques as members over the next four to five months before expanding the network through joint programmes.
Mohd Azmi mentioned the introduction of a mechanism to train mosque volunteers, particularly youth, targeting about 500 volunteers across the region. Additionally, a database of ASEAN mosques, totaling over 1.3 million, will be built, with Malaysia being a priority due to existing relevant data.
The secretariat is set to establish digital links with mosques across the region to facilitate information sharing and programme coordination. It will feature specialised units for data, training, public relations, and international relations to ensure effective implementation of decisions made during the conference.
The secretariat will also address tasks such as building profiles and communications, managing mosque administration, and recruiting and registering volunteers. Moreover, key priorities like providing proper Islamic education and improving general education in mosque vicinities have been identified.
A mosque management manual tailored to different approaches in each country will be produced to empower mosques according to their local context. The strategic plan, running from 2026 to 2037, will include periodic evaluations to assess achievements, identify challenges, and improve execution. This effort aims to resolve leadership and management issues, prevent division among congregants, and ensure mosques serve as true unity centres for the regional Muslim community.
Mohd Azmi also highlighted that issues concerning Palestine and Al-Aqsa remain central to the network's agenda, including streamlining aid distribution to Gaza. Coordination of relief efforts is a priority to ensure proper recording and accountability.
The Regional Mosque Conference 2026, themed 'Mosques Empowering the Global Ummah: Unity, Well-Being and the Liberation of Al-Aqsa', gathered mosque leaders, Islamic scholars, and community activists from across Southeast Asia. The two-day conference, which began yesterday, attracted 200 participants, including representatives from Singapore, the Philippines, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Turkiye. Conference sessions, the Palestine and Al-Aqsa Charity Gala Night, and public talks were among the highlights.