The penang islamic religious affairs department (jheaipp) has clarified that accepting contributions or waqf from non-muslims does not grant them equal rights concerning matters of faith:uslims does not grant them equal rights concerning matters of faith, worship, religious leadership, or the administration of Islamic institutions.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, JHEAIPP emphasized in a Facebook statement that muamalat (mutual dealings) and community welfare should be distinguished from issues of faith and religious leadership. The acceptance of contributions does not automatically confer rights over an institution, land, administration, or religious decisions upon the donor.
The department highlighted that while non-Muslim contributions toward mosque construction may be accepted as charitable acts, they do not entitle donors to hold positions such as committee member, chairman, imam, or khatib, nor to use or control facilities reserved for Muslims. The statement was made in response to views and objections raised after the content of a Penang Friday prayer sermon on August 7.
JHEAIPP also noted that the spiritual rewards associated with contributions are not guaranteed to be the same for non-Muslims as for Muslims, as the determination of rewards in the afterlife is solely within Allah's domain. Nonetheless, Islam recognizes the good deeds of non-Muslims who support charitable causes and benefit society.
The department addressed concerns that non-Muslim donations might compromise Islam or the dignity of Muslims, stating that Islam's strength relies on strong faith, understanding of Islamic law, good character, and the ability to manage societal relations. It cited Prophet Muhammad PBUH's engagement with non-Muslims in muamalat, referencing an authentic hadith where he bought food on credit from a Jewish man, as an example of such interactions.
JHEAIPP stressed that concerns about the future of Muslims should be based on knowledge and facts, not assumptions that contributions would lead to non-Muslim control over mosques or Muslim cemeteries. It reiterated that waqf is governed by Syariah law, state legislation, and religious authorities, and contributions do not alter these requirements.
The department urged the public to address the issue with fairness and knowledge, avoiding conclusions outside the sermon or religious rulings. It called for wise dakwah in Penang's multicultural society, upholding firm faith, Syariah principles, fairness in muamalat, and appreciation of acts of kindness.