Putrajaya: The passing of former Grand Imam of the National Mosque, Tan Sri Syaikh Ismail Muhammad, is a profound loss to Muslims in Malaysia. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the late Syaikh Ismail was remembered not only as the longest-serving Grand Imam of the National Mosque, but also as a distinguished educator, mursyid, and Quranic scholar who dedicated his life to imparting knowledge.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ahmad Zahid highlighted that Syaikh Ismail's service as a judge at both national and international Quran Recital and Memorisation Assemblies elevated Malaysia's standing globally. Ahmad Zahid described the respected religious figure as soft-spoken and deeply knowledgeable, with immense contributions to advancing the Quran, Islamic scholarship, and dakwah. He added that Syaikh Ismail's exemplary character would continue to inspire and expressed condolences to his family, praying for strength and fortitude during this difficult time. He also prayed for the forgiveness of Syaikh Ismail's sins and that his soul be placed among the righteous.

The late Syaikh Ismail, who was named the National Tokoh Maal Hijrah 1443H/2021 and served as the Grand Imam from 2007 to 2019, passed away early this morning at the age of 81. Meanwhile, Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na'im Mokhtar noted Syaikh Ismail's key role in advancing Quranic literacy in the country. He described him as not just a teacher but a murabbi of the ummah who guided with wisdom and steadfastness.

Mohd Na'im expressed personal sorrow at Syaikh Ismail's passing, sharing that he holds many cherished memories and a commitment to continue the tradition of knowledge, noble conduct, and love for the Quran. He prayed for Allah SWT to forgive and bless Syaikh Ismail, granting him a place among the righteous, and offered condolences to the family, wishing them patience and strength.